The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) supports the ongoing crackdown being conducted by the Nairobi County government on bars and night clubs in residential areas.
As the lead agency in the campaign against alcohol and drug abuse in the country, the Authority said Monday it has continued to receive numerous complaints regarding bars and entertainment joints operating in estates and near schools.
“NACADA consequently supports the timely directive from the County Government and reiterates its commitment to work with the National Police Service (NPS) and other multi- sectoral stakeholders in ensuring that its enforcement is strictly undertaken especially given that the country is heading to the festive season,” said CEO Victor Okioma.
He added in November 2018 High Court Judge Justice Chacha Mwita ruled that it was illegal for bars to operate near schools and residential areas.
According to Okioma, the judge grounded his ruling on article 42 of the constitution which gives everyone the right to a clean and healthy environment which should be free from pollutants such as noise.
“The Authority further cautions proprietors of entertainment and alcohol dispensing premises within estates to ensure that they adhere to provisions of the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act, 2010 which clearly prescribes proximity of entertainment joints specifically to residential areas and schools.”
Okioma called on resident associations and other community groups to do their part in calling out and reporting to authorities any proprietor violating the law to ensure such transgressions are promptly halted. Additionally, NACADA will soon engage all counties to ensure that similar operations are conducted across the country.
As the country prepares for the festive season, the Authority takes this opportunity to point out that children must be protected from exposure to alcohol and drugs, said Okioma.
He argued this is in respect to the fact that they need a conducive environment as they undertake home- based learning activities in readiness for re-opening of schools in January,2023.
“NACADA also wishes to caution drivers against drunk driving during the same season and urges them to be mindful of the safety of travelers during the festive season.”
Dozens of reveler were arrested and bars closed in an operation on Sunday.
President William Ruto said he supports the operation to ensure residents have peaceful nights.
Nairobi governor Johnson Sakaja cancelled licenses for nightclubs operating in residential areas following public uproar over noise pollution.
Sakaja said henceforth his administration will not issue or renew licenses for night clubs in residential areas.
He hence added that those that already exist will now function only as bars and restaurants, operating only within specific times.
“Henceforth night club licenses will be issued to premises only within the Central Business District and specified streets in other non-residential areas,” read the statement signed by Nairobi County Secretary Dr. Jairus Musumba.
“Bars and restaurants in residential areas must operate within the specified time and control noise emanating from their premises. Specifically, playing of music must stop by 10pm.”
“All liquor selling premises in the County should provide sufficient parking for clientele. Vehicles causing obstruction along roads and footpaths shall be impounded.”
