Duale directs NEMA to crackdown on bars involved in noise pollution

By Peter Ochieng

Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry Aden Duale, has given express orders to the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).

The former CS directed the Authority’s Nairobi office to initiate a major crackdown on bars involved in noise pollution in the Capital.

“I have directed NEMA's Nairobi office to launch a major crackdown on pollution, targeting noise from clubs, nighttime construction, improper waste disposal and air quality,” said Duale.

“The multi-agency operation, led by NEMA Police Unit, marks the beginning of a nationwide anti-pollution campaign. Going forward, NEMA will not permit clubs in residential areas unless they fully comply with soundproofing and environmental laws,” he said, adding that the era of impunity by club owners and private developers must end.

His order attracted mixed reactions from Kenyans. Here is a sample:

Ishmael Ishmael: Public participation is key.... Don’t just order...The era of orders is long gone.... As you close people’s businesses, walk with them...Some have loans...and others have invested heavily....Today it is me, tomorrow it is you...”

Issa Hassan Jelle: Your firm stance on environmental issues sets a strong precedent for ensuring the well-being of residents and sustainable urban development. This nationwide anti-pollution campaign will likely have a lasting positive impact on public health and quality of life.

Brian Keago: You have indeed shown good leadership Sir. Geoffrey Mosiria KE took a bold step to ensure Nairobi regains its glory as the green city under the sun. This multifaceted approach does not only uphold public interest but also underscores the efficacy of a tailored approach to selectively but broadly address the holistic topic of environmental degradation.”

Deeqa Dheyman: Aden Duale, thank you for coming to our rescue Waziri. The night clubs are not only causing pollution but there are a lot of new immoral behaviours we witnessed. We Kenyan Somalis were known to be disciplined people but things have turned west off late. We need the religious leaders to step up as well!

Duale served as CS for Defence before landing in the environment docket, swapping roles with Roselinda Soipan Tuya.