The Nairobi governor Johnson Sakaja has spelt a death knell to the hospitality industry still recovering from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic after cancelling nightclub licenses for all outlets operating within residential areas in Nairobi.
He directed that going forward, no new licenses will be issued for operation of nightclubs in residential areas within the city.
In a quick rejoinder, business owners disparaged the new directives saying they are misconceived and will only encourage extortionist tendencies.
The governor issued the controversial directive in a quick dispatch to newsrooms shared to newsrooms yesterday evening.
He said those running nightclubs in residential areas will only be allowed to operate as restaurants and bars and will not have their licenses renewed.
The governor’s move was after numerous complaints were registered from members of the public on noise emanating from the entertainment joints, making the lives of residents unbearable.
“No nightclub licenses will be issued or renewed for premises operating within residential areas. Henceforth night club licenses will be issued to premises only within the CBD and specified streets in other non-residential areas.” Sakaja aid through his County Secretary Jarius Musimba.
Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome through a statement said the police will enforce the directive noting that “the National Police Service is committed to serve and to protect.”
On his part, Sakaja said that bars and restaurants in residential areas must operate within the specified time and control noise from their premises.
He ordered that playing of music in those establishments should stop by 10 pm.
He further directed that all liquor selling premises in the county to provide ample parking for their clientele, adding that vehicles causing obstruction along roads and footpaths shall be impounded.
In September the County threatened to close down about 43 nightclubs operating in residential areas over noise pollution.
The county however held talks with bar owners from the listed establishments, who agreed to operate within the law.
Nairobi Deputy governor Njoroge Muchiri who had convened the meeting said their agenda is not to close down people’s business but to provide a conducive environment for doing business.
He however notes that them doing business shouldn’t be a nuisance to other city dwellers.
