Sakaja Unveils Nightclub Overhaul After 9,100 Unlicensed Venues
Governor Johnson Sakaja of Nairobi is contemplating significant reforms in the operations of nightclubs throughout the city in response to the discovery that an unprecedented number of liquor stores were functioning without proper licenses.
The county announced in a statement published on Tuesday that Sakaja will shortly implement the zones necessary for the operation of nightclubs.
This, he explained, was implemented to safeguard individuals in residential areas while also creating a favorable environment for businesses.
The governor disclosed to the leadership of the Bar Owners Association, during a meeting, that a mere 30 percent of the county’s estimated 13,000 liquor outlets were duly licensed.
It was reported that 9,100 establishments, constituting 70% of the nightclub, were functioning without valid licenses.
Sakaja emphasized that without regulation, public safety cannot be ensured, further asserting that unlicensed establishments significantly contribute to the distribution of illicit and counterfeit alcoholic beverages.
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He implored stakeholders to follow in the footsteps of those who had complied with noise regulations, highlighting the substantial reduction in complaints and the safety of road users.
By the recent increase in countywide licensing fees and the implementation of new nightclub regulation strategies, Sakaja has established a committee tasked with gathering the perspectives of relevant parties.
He stated that the group will be responsible for developing proposals for the County Assembly’s consideration and approval. It is anticipated that the committee will present its report within one week.
Beginning in November, Sakaja increased annual fees levied to retail outlets by a significant amount, from Ksh25,000 to Ksh100,000.
In contrast, the off-license fee increased from Ksh12,000 to Ksh50,000.
Certain industry stakeholders expressed concern regarding the disproportionate nature of the precipitous increase and held the county accountable for failing to specify which types of businesses would be affected by the new regulations.
Sakaja Unveils Nightclub Overhaul After 9,100 Unlicensed Venues
