Richard Ngatia, Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) chairperson, has moved to save 43 Nairobi clubs facing closure over noise pollution.
In a statement dated Monday, October 3, Ngatia noted that he had secured a deal with Nairobi City County Alcoholic Drinks Control and Licencing Board to temporarily halt the directive from taking from being enforced.
He noted that the temporary reprieve was essential for the clubs' owners to engage 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 dialogue period, the businessman advised the entertainment joints to adhere to stipulated guidelines regarding noise pollution in residential areas.
He further instructed business owners to ensure their patrons and customers do not cause traffic disruption, further escalating the stand-off with residents.
On Monday, October 3, Director of Liquor Licensing Hesbon Angwena noted that the move to shut down the clubs followed a series of complaints raised by residents regarding noise pollution.
Angwena thus instructed his officers to start the process of cancellation, revocation and closing of 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.
Among the entertainment joints set for closure included the Loft, Quiver Lounge, Clique Joint, Pioneer Resort and Bar Next Door.
Others were Grace House Resort at Yaya Center, Oyster in Kilimani, Sufra in Westlands, Onix along Ngong Road, Orchid Lounge in Kibra and Tipsy Lounge in Dagoretti North.
The directive was set to affect other clubs in other residential areas such as Roysambu, Kahawa West, Embakasi and Dangoretti.
Speaking on Monday, October 3, Kileleshwa Member of County Assembly Robert Alai argued that failing to regulate the clubs in residential areas would promote crime and even affect society's morals.
