Kenyan law makes a distinction between ‘Disturbing Noise’ – which is “objective and is defined as a scientifically measurable noise level,” and ‘Noise Nuisance,’ which is “a subjective measure and is defined as any noise that disturbs or impairs or may disturb or impair the convenience or peace of any person.”
There is no shortage of laws and sound policy governing development in Kenya. The Constitution of Kenya through the Environmental Management and Coordination Act, 1999: entitles every person in Kenya “to a clean and healthy environment”. Laws, primarily NEMA’s Legal Notice No. 61, have been created to establish noise standards and prohibit excessive noise levels and government agencies have been empowered to hold accountable those breaking the law by issuing warnings, fines and eventually a withdrawal of licenses to operate. In August of 2021, Nairobi County also enacted the Nairobi City County Public Nuisance Bill which will make it illegal to play loud music or cause noise pollution.
KLDA suggests that all Karen and Langata residents take the following steps in the event a noise disturbance:
1. Request the offender to reduce the noise.
2. Use the complaint form provided below and submit as soon as possible via email to KLDA info@klda.or.ke and cc your neighborhood association secretary
3. Keep a record every time you have a disturbance – this forms part of the paper trail for follow up.
4. Take a recording of the decibel level at your property – and proof, if possible, of where the noise is emanating from which may mean visiting the offender to establish the facts. There are many free decibel apps, in the APP Store. If you have a decibel counter, measure the noise and screenshot the reading. Alternatively try taking a video with sound on your phone.
5. Lodge your complaint on whichever KLDA number WhatsApp platform you are on
6. If your neighbors are also being bothered by the noise, ask them to join your complaint; this will add more weight. Numbers to call for “Noise Disturbances”:
KLDA 0718 923 861 / 0795 385 932.
Mr. Kavai – NEMA Representative for this area – 0723 135 570.
Karen OCS – Ms Purity Kobia – 0724 667 154.
Hardy OCS – Silas Njagi -0721694715
