Residents of Riara Road in Nairobi have raised alarm over persistent noise pollution from Iris Club (formerly Onyx) located at Marsabit Plaza, accusing the Nairobi County Government and the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) of ignoring their complaints.
According to frustrated tenants, the nightclub has been operating with excessively loud music and a hypeman who shouts through the night, disrupting the peace of families living in nearby residential apartments.
“We get no peace on weekends. The music is loud, and they even have a hypeman. It’s so disappointing, especially because this is right next to residential,” one resident complained in a message shared with blogger Cyprian Nyakundi.
Complaints Ignored by County and NEMA
Residents say they have written multiple letters to both Nairobi County officials and NEMA, but no meaningful action has been taken.
“They are oblivious to the fact that they are disturbing the peace. We have written several times to the county and NEMA, but nothing has been done,” the tenant lamented.
This has left locals questioning why some establishments are targeted in county crackdowns, while others, like Iris Club, continue to operate unchecked despite repeated complaints.
Spotlight on Geoffrey Mosiria and Selective Enforcement
Nairobi County’s Chief Officer for Environment, Geoffrey Mosiria, has in the past staged high-profile raids on noisy nightclubs, churches, and outdoor events, especially in estates like Pipeline. He has even documented these operations on social media, presenting himself as a defender of Nairobians’ right to a peaceful environment.
However, critics now say his silence on the Iris Club case suggests selective enforcement, undermining public confidence in county operations.
Residents argue that failure to act on noise pollution in affluent or high-profile areas raises suspicions of favoritism or influence shielding certain businesses.
Noise Pollution: A Persistent Nairobi Problem
Noise pollution remains a long-standing challenge in Nairobi, particularly in areas where residential estates sit next to entertainment hotspots.
Experts note that prolonged exposure to loud noise not only affects mental health and sleep quality, but can also trigger stress, anxiety, and long-term hearing problems.
Nairobi County has repeatedly promised to enforce environmental laws and restore order in entertainment zones, but inconsistent action continues to frustrate residents.
Residents Demand Urgent Action
Residents around Riara Road are now demanding urgent intervention from Nairobi County and NEMA to shut down or regulate Iris Club.
They warn that if such selective enforcement persists, it could erode public trust and encourage impunity among businesses that disregard environmental laws.
“We just want peace in our homes. If other clubs have been shut down for noise, why is this one being protected?” one resident asked.