Kampala — Bars, nightclubs and other entertainment venues in Kampala are facing stricter regulation after city authorities issued a 14-day ultimatum to comply with noise pollution standards or face enforcement action.
Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Executive Director, Hajat Sharifah Buzeki, said nuisance orders have already been served to non-compliant establishments, requiring them to install noise control measures within the stipulated period.
“We have issued nuisance orders to these business premises and given a grace period of 14 days to ensure that they insulate their premises, install noise limiters and do not bypass them. After that, we will enforce in line with the law,” Ms Buzeki said.
The directive targets a wide range of establishments, including bars, nightclubs and other entertainment venues, many of which operate within mixed residential and commercial areas where complaints about excessive noise have intensified.
KCCA said it is working closely with the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) to enforce compliance with permissible noise levels, set at 75 decibels during the day and 50 decibels at night.
City officials say the move is aimed at safeguarding public health and improving urban living conditions, particularly in residential neighbourhoods affected by persistent noise pollution.
“The noise levels in these areas must not exceed 75 decibels during the day and 50 decibels at night,” Buzeki emphasised, warning that non-compliant businesses risk penalties under existing environmental regulations.
The crackdown comes amid growing concern over the impact of noise pollution on residents, with authorities seeking to strike a balance between economic activity in the entertainment sector and the well-being of the public.