Richard Ngatia, the chairperson of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), has moved to save 43 Nairobi clubs from closure due to noise pollution.
In a statement issued on Monday, October 3, Ngatia stated that he had reached an agreement with the Nairobi City County Alcoholic Drinks Control and Licensing Board to temporarily halt the directive’s implementation.
He stated that the temporary reprieve was necessary for the owners of the clubs to meet with city residents to discuss a better operating model.
“The board agreed not to close any bars till such dialogue has ensued,” Ngatia, who had expressed interest in vying for Nairobi gubernatorial seat under Azimio la Umoja Coalition in the August 9 polls, stated.
During the discussion, the businessman advised the establishments to follow the noise pollution guidelines in residential areas.
He also directed business owners to ensure that their patrons and customers do not disrupt traffic, escalating the standoff with residents.
On Monday, October 3, Director of Liquor Licensing Hesbon Angwena stated that the decision to close the clubs was made in response to a number of complaints from residents about noise pollution.
As a result, Angwena directed his officers to begin the process of canceling, revoking, and closing the affected clubs.
“The complaints have also been received by the County Environment Compliance and Enforcement officers, and despite arrests and arraignment in court, the proprietors have refused to comply and continue to contravene the stipulated licensing condition,” he stated.
