The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has issued a warning against noise pollution during the Christmas festive season.
In a statement shared by Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale on Tuesday, December 24, NEMA reminded the public and facility operators of the legal and environmental consequences of non-compliance.
The agency highlighted numerous complaints about noise pollution originating from clubs and religious establishments situated in residential areas.
"We wish to draw your attention to the Second Schedule (3.1) of the Environmental Management and Coordination Act (1999, Revised 2019) which stipulates that any activity out of character with its surroundings will require to undergo environmental impact assessment (EIA).
"Shopping Centres, Commercial centres, business premises, and places of worship such as churches, mosques and temples are subject to environmental impact assessment. The Authority notes with concern that most of the facilities reported by the public for causing noise pollution are not compliant," the statement read.
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NEMA warned that facilities found to be in violation during the festive period will be required to immediately stop all noise-generating activities.
They will also have to undertake an Environmental Impact Assessment with public participation, and in cases where facilities possess an EIA license but violate its terms, they will face prosecution.
"NEMA inspectors will continue to monitor facilities at any time to ensure compliance to best environmental standards. Members of the public are requested to report any facilities creating noise pollution using the NEMA hotline numbers 0741101100 or 0786101100," the statement further read.
