We can’t sleep, Rongai residents complain over noise from bars

Despite ongoing efforts to address the escalation of bars across the country, residents of Ongata Rongai in Kajiado North, continue to face the disruptive presence of these establishments in their neighbourhoods.

Some of the residents told Wananchi Reporting that the issue has worsened to a point where it's not just a matter of inconvenience, but a significant threat to the well-being and quality of life for those living in affected areas.

Michael Makori, a tenant residing in an apartment near a bar vividly describes the relentless disturbances caused by nearby bars.

"The noise from these bars is intolerable," Makori says. "It feels like there's a never-ending party going on right outside my window every night. It's impossible to get a good night's sleep."

Miriam Kairu, a businesswoman in the town, echoes Makori's sentiments.

"The constant noise and disorderliness from the bars, wine and spirits shops, make it difficult to conduct business during the day," she explains.

"Customers are put off by the commotion; no customer likes a disorganised business place."

Their testimonies paint a vivid picture of the daily struggles faced by residents living close to bars in Ongata Rongai.

Despite government efforts to crack down on these establishments, the challenges persist, undermining the quality of life for families affected.

However, the issue of loud music and disturbances from bars in Ongata Rongai isn't new. For years, residents have reportedly lodged complaints with local authorities, including the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and Kajiado County officials, urging them to take action against the offending establishments.

One of the hotels in particular, has according to the residents become a focal point of discontent among residents, with its booming speakers and disorderly patrons creating a nightly spectacle that disrupts the peace of the neighbourhood.

Located in close proximity to residential buildings, the hotel's disregard for noise regulations and community well-being has sparked outrage among those who call Ongata Rongai home.

A chain of bars situated between a row of apartments in the area have also been significant nuisances to tenants, leading many to relocate due to unbearable noise levels.

Moreover, residential areas near Nyotu, just a stone's throw away from Rongai police station, have also experienced disturbances from nearby bars.

Despite the legal framework in place to regulate noise pollution and ensure compliance with zoning regulations, enforcement mechanisms appear to be lacking, leaving residents feeling neglected and powerless in the face of unchecked urbanization.

As the war to curb bar nuisance in Ongata Rongai rages on, residents told Wananchi Reporting that they remain dedicated in their determination to reclaim their neighbourhoods from the clutches of noise pollution and disruption.