Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) have raided bars across Kampala, seizing sound systems in a joint operation aimed at curbing noise pollution in the city.
The operation, which took place across Kampala’s five divisions Nakawa, Kawempe, Makindye, Rubaga, and Central resulted in the seizure of 153 pieces of sound equipment from nine facilities.
Famous bars like Climax in Makindye and Paradigm on Kansanga were not spared for playing music above the legal limits.
Sound systems including speakers, amplifiers, and other audio devices used to generate high-volume music were impounded.
In addition to confiscating equipment, authorities issued warning notices to some businesses and sealed off others operating without valid licences.
The move is part of ongoing efforts to ensure that public spaces and neighborhoods are free from excessive noise that can negatively affect residents’ health and wellbeing.
Recently, the KCCA executive director, Sharifah Buzeki warned bars, churches among other places giving them guidelines. She noted that in busy commercial areas, noise levels must not exceed 75 decibels during the day and 50 decibels at night, while stricter limits will apply in residential areas.
According to Uganda’s National Environment Act, Cap. 181, it is illegal to emit noise above permissible levels.
Enforcement is guided by the National Environment (Noise Standards and Control) Regulations, 2003. Offenders can face fines, equipment confiscation, and even closure of their businesses.
According to KCCA, residential areas should not exceed 50 decibels during daytime hours and 35 decibels at night, while mixed residential and commercial areas should maintain a limit of 55 decibels during the day and 45 decibels at night.
