Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has praised Quiver Steak House in Milimani for their decision to stop playing music in their establishment, stating that it is a step in the right direction for the business.
Duale, who was recently appointed to the ministry, referred to the Constitution to support his statement, quoting the Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA). The Act provides for environmental protection through environmental impact assessments, environmental audits and monitoring, environmental restoration orders, conservation orders, and easements.
“Section 4 (1) EMCA (Noise Pollution and Excessive Vibrations Regulations 2009) states that no person shall make or cause to be made excessive vibrations which annoy, disturb, injure, or endanger the comfort, repose, health or safety of others and the environment,” he posted on X.
According to the CS, the club's management made the right move.
“Quiver's management's commitment to eliminating excessive noise and vibration is a step in the right direction to ensure a safe and healthy environment for business operations,” he added.
This comes after a public outcry from residents who accused the establishment of playing loud music, despite being located in a residential area. In response, Nairobi County officials raided the club over the weekend, asking patrons to leave.
“We issued them with a notice of intention to close, and we also had their license cancelled,” Geoffrey Mosiria, Chief Officer of Environment for Nairobi City County, told The Standard via phone.
However, the management, which has been in the spotlight for noise pollution, has reversed its hard stance and now plans to become the first club in the city to stop playing music.
The management says the decision was made in the spirit of unity and environmental conservation following discussions with local neighbours.
“This unique approach aims to foster a vibrant atmosphere where guests can fully enjoy their time without the distraction of loud music. We believe people can still eat, drink, and have fun while engaging in meaningful conversations and connecting with one another,” the club stated.
The club says that eliminating loud music will encourage a more social environment where laughter, chatter, and the clinking of glasses can take centre stage. Their focus will be on the joy of togetherness and the simple pleasures of life.
This is not the first time Nairobi residents have raised concerns about clubs operating in residential neighbourhoods. Last year, former Miss Kenya Emma Too took issue with Samaki Samaki, a popular restaurant she accused of giving residents sleepless nights, with bar owners profiting at the expense of suburban life quality.
“Today we won’t sleep! The neighbourhood nuisance has decided we must listen to music all night! Sometimes I wish I had special powers I could use badly for the common good, like sending lightning to strike their music equipment! I’m honestly getting exhausted,” she posted on social media before the conversation created a buzz online.