Owners of 43-night clubs in Nairobi can now feel relieved after the Nairobi County administration withdrew the decision to revoke their licenses.
These clubs and entertainment joints were to be closed due to noise pollution.
Moreover, Nairobi Deputy Governor Njoroge Muchiri while speaking during a meeting with the 43 club owners on Tuesday, October 11 directed them to adhere to regulations, failure to which action will be taken against them.
“Our manifesto is to enable businesses to thrive, but you must not infringe on residents’ rights. We have a duty and an obligation to make sure we create a conducive environment for businesses of all sizes to operate,” he stated.
In addition, county director of liquor Hesborn Agwena las week announced that at least 43 clubs in Nairobi will be closed for noise pollution.
Moreover, the Nairobi City County Alcoholic Drinks Control and Licensing Board launched a crackdown looking to revoke licenses of the clubs as per the Licensing ACT 2014.
According to the county director of liquor, this move came after a series of complaints from residents about the entertainment joints.
Nevertheless, a section of Nairobi MCAs condemned the move vowing to protect traders whose clubs were earmarked for closure.
Furthermore, the Deputy Governor noted that there was need for people to co-exist peacefully where people can reside as well as conduct their businesses.
Likewise, he encouraged liquor outlets to self-regulate and invest in soundproof to minimize noise pollution.
According to DG Muchiri, there is a need for collaboration and continuous dialogue between the business community and residents’ association in ensuring the zoning laws are adhered to avoid conflict.
The deputy governor further called for quarterly roundtable stakeholders’ meetings between residents and business owners to review progress made.
“The Sakaja government is pro-business… We are focusing on changing how our enforcement is done and offering support to businesses and not harassing them,” Muchiri said.