By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has issued a 14-day ultimatum to entertainment venues, churches and other establishments to install noise control measures or face enforcement action.
The directive was announced on Wednesday by KCCA Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki during a press conference at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala.
Buzeki said the move is aimed at curbing escalating noise pollution in the city and aligns with provisions of the National Environment Act, enforced by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).
“Under environmental management and noise control, we as a city are strengthening enforcement of noise pollution standards in collaboration with NEMA,” she said.
According to the new guidelines, entertainment venues and individuals must not exceed 75 decibels during the day and 50 decibels at night. Authorities say the limits are intended to protect residents from excessive noise, particularly in the city and residential areas.
Buzeki revealed that KCCA has already issued nuisance and compliance orders to bars, churches and other premises identified as major sources of noise.
“We are encouraging all businesses and entertainment venues that are violating these standards to comply. After the 14 days, enforcement will be carried out in line with the law,” she warned.
Kampala has in recent years experienced rising noise levels attributed to street preachers, mobile advertisers, bars and places of worship using high-powered sound systems.
City authorities say the directive is expected to restore order and reduce noise pollution in the capital.
