Watamu Residents Petition Government Over Noise Nuisance by Night Clubs

By The Coast Team

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

Malindi’s Watamu residents and foreign investors have petitioned the government over rampant noise pollution from nightclubs.

The over 600 residents have expressed frustration over failure by authorities to contain the noise menace and other immoralities associated with mushrooming of night clubs.

They are demanding immediate action by senior county and central government officials under whom noise pollution and liquor licensing fall.

The residents drawn from diverse groups want the regulators to help restore peace, protect public health, and preserve the town’s reputation as a leading tourist destination.

They are asking for strict enforcement of Kenya’s Environmental Management and Coordination (Noise and Excessive Vibration Pollution) (Control) Regulations of 2009, enacted under the Environmental Management and Coordination Act.

The Coast Media Team talked to some of them to hear their sentiments.

Among those affected is Halima Lali, a resident of Watamu village, an area she says has become notorious for disco clubs operating without soundproofing.

She says the noise has made life unbearable for families, the elderly and children.

“All night we can’t sleep, and we have old parents and small children; we are asking the government to enforce environment pollution laws and ensure that, if the clubs do not put sound proof roofs, they should relocate from residential areas,” said Lali.

Detlef Heier, speaking alongside his wife Elisabeth Kurer residents of Watamu, said locals and investors were not opposed to clubs’ business, but wanted the law enforced to ensure harmony between entertainment venues and the community.

At least eight clubs in Watamu have been flagged for persistent noise pollution.

To formalise their concerns, residents have launched a petition signed by 618 residents and investors, demanding urgent government action.

The petition, according to the residents, was sent to President William Ruto and copied to environment cabinet secretary Deborah Mlongo Barasa, NEMA director general Mamo Boru Mamo, the Kilifi County Dmdirector of NEMA, and Governor Gideon Mung’aro.

A section of Sign Boards in Watamu. (Photo By Mwakwaya Raymond)

They say their concerns have yet to be addressed.

“We have a problem with enforcement of the laws. The court had declared that rights of residents affected by loud music were violated, but nothing has been happening in terms of enforcement,” Heier added.

For years, residents have complained about loud music and late-night noise from bars, nightclubs and entertainment venues operating in violation of the law.

“This is business, and we are not opposed to it; however, why can’t they put sound proof, or close or even relocate from residential areas?” Heier pondered.

Despite numerous court cases and reports to the police, NEMA and the county government, residents say enforcement has remained weak. Some clubs, including Mnazi dens, have also been blamed for contributing to insecurity, moral decay and teenage pregnancies by exposing young girls to drugs and alcohol.

“Watamu was once known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, representing the petitioners.

“But now, many people can’t sleep at night. Children struggle to study, and families are suffering. We are simply asking the authorities to enforce the law and restore peace,” Salim Gambo, a resident from Watamu village.

Health experts warn that prolonged exposure to loud noise can increase stress levels, raise blood pressure and contribute to heart disease, while also affecting learning and productivity, especially among children and students.

Residents are now calling for immediate enforcement of existing environmental laws, including issuing warnings, imposing fines and closing non-compliant establishments.

The matter has also attracted the attention of human rights groups led by Vocal Africa, which is urging the government to take action to ensure noisy clubs install soundproof walls and comply with regulations.

Vocal Africa executive director Hussein Khalid called for proper planning to relocate noisy clubs from residential areas to designated nightlife zones.

“Watamu is a tourist city,that is developing very fast and therefore there must be a good plan to ensure the clubs that are within residential areas are relocated to an area where they can freely do business without causing harm to citizens,” he said.

Residents have also proposed increased community engagement and education to dispel myths about noise “permits”, mandatory training for police officers on handling noise pollution complaints, and the establishment of a local complaints mechanism with clear follow-up and accountability.

Halima Lali local activist register her disappointment to the media.(Photo By Mwakwaya Raymond)

They say their goal is to ensure Watamu remains a safe, healthy and attractive destination for both residents and tourists.

“We are asking the government to listen to us. Watamu is a beautiful place let’s not let it be ruined by uncontrolled noise,” said another resident from Watamu.