The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has clarified its role in the enforcement of noise pollution, days after Loresho residents barricaded a hotel hosting an event for diplomats.
In a notice dated Thursday, the authority noted that noise control was a devolved function with county governments mandated to enact and enforce the law.
The agency maintained that it only plays an oversight role concerning noise pollution.
Therefore, Kenyans were advised to submit complaints of noise pollution to their respective county government offices.
"Every person has a right to live in a serene surrounding free from excessive noise. A facility or an activity should not exceed the allowable noise levels and should provide for mitigating measures for the reduction of noise.
"Do not allow loud, unreasonable, unnecessary or unusual noise which annoys, disturbs, injures or endangers the comfort, repose, health or safety of others and the environment. Report noise-related incidents to your county government," read the notice in part.
Additionally, Kenyans were notified that only the county governments were mandated to give Kenyans leeway to surpass the noise limit for various events such as demolitions and fireworks, among others.
According to the Noise Regulations, Kenyans are required to obtain licences for events that may disrupt neighbourhoods during the night.
For instance, the regulations prohibit the use of noise-amplifying equipment that can be heard outside of any building between 9 pm.
The clarification by NEMA came days after officers from the Anti-Terror Police Unit (ATPU) were forced to intervene and rescue diplomats in an incident where Loresho residents barricaded the entrance of their hotel.
According to the residents, the loud noise from the hotel interfered with their sleep. Some alleged that the hotel had also been on the spot for noise pollution previously.
The matter is still being investigated by the police.
