NAIROBI, Kenya – The Nairobi City County Government has rolled out a string of new regulations aimed at restoring order in the Central Business District (CBD), with a strong focus on public transport, noise control, and sanitation.
The new directives, announced this week, will see matatus banned from playing music while operating within the CBD, in a bid to curb noise pollution that officials say has disrupted businesses, schools, and city dwellers.
Under the rules, matatu operators must mute their sound systems while in the CBD.
Music can only resume once vehicles exit the area.
Additionally, touts and conductors are now barred from shouting to attract passengers.
Instead, all matatus are required to display placards showing their routes and fare prices—a shift aimed at reducing street-level chaos and improving commuter experience.
A 10pm terminal curfew has also been introduced, requiring all matatus to vacate designated terminals by that time to allow for overnight cleaning, part of a broader hygiene push in the city centre.
“We are committed to making Nairobi a clean, safe, and orderly city for all,” the County Government said in a statement.
Beyond public transport, the noise clampdown extends to shops, vendors, bars, clubs, and churches.
Businesses that use loudspeakers or pre-recorded messages to draw customers must now desist.
Establishments that play music at disruptive volumes will face stricter enforcement.
To enforce the new rules, the County Government is partnering with the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), the Kenya Police, and liquor licensing officers to conduct routine inspections.
Meanwhile, on the national level, the NTSA (Amendment) Bill, 2023 could soon give the Transport Cabinet Secretary the power to regulate matatu fares.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa, seeks to eliminate arbitrary fare hikes by introducing a standardised pricing structure for public service vehicles.
