The City management of Kisumu has banned church prayer crusades in public places citing noise pollution.
A notice to churches and religious organisations signed by Kisumu Acting City Manager Abala Wanga stated that the ban was necessitated by complaints from members of the public.
Wanga in the notice said several complaints had been filed at his office by area residents who lamented over the increased number of crusades within public spaces of residential areas in the city.
“Notice is hereby given to all religious institutions to ensure that all public religious gatherings in estates and residential areas are stopped and held within their church premises and not in any public space,” read the notice in part.
The notice further instructed religious leaders to install soundproofing devices at their places of worship and restrict the crusades and gatherings to their premises.
“Take further notice that you are hereby directed to reduce the noise which we have noted to be excessive to the permissible levels (up to 45db) within your premises,” stated the notice.
Churches that fail to comply with the directive, according to the notice will face legal action as stipulated in sections 137 and 140 of the Environmental Management and Coordination Act 1999.
A similar notice was issued to at least 16 bars and nightclubs in the area which have become notorious for noise pollution.
According to the notice, the establishments have failed to comply with noise reduction measures despite several warnings.
Some of the premises named in the notice include; Ram XB, Mamba Lounge, Mwalimu Junction Hotel, Tausi Guest House and Restaurant, Topaz Club, and Empire Bar and Restaurant Wayside.
Others on the list are Alleyways Beer garden, Fabric Lounge-Kondele, Anchors Lounge, Afrikana Rooftop Bar and Restaurant, Da Vundu Bar, Level 4 Signature, La Vue Lounge, Club Da Place, Blackpearl Nyamasaria and Cassavilla Club.
“Failure to abide by this final notice will lead to revocation of your liquor license and the City Management shall proceed to institute legal action against them in conformity with sections 137 and 140 of the Environmental Management and Coordination Act 1999,” stated the notice.
By Chris Mahandara
