Nairobi City County’s Chief Officer for Environment, Geoffrey Mosiria, has commended Pastors James Ng’ang’a of Neno Evangelism Church and Bishop Margaret Wanjiru of Jesus is Alive Ministries for maintaining churches that do not contribute to Nairobi’s growing noise pollution crisis.
Speaking during an interview with Dr. Ofweneke on TV47, Mosiria pointed out that while many churches in Nairobi are in competition and causing disturbances, the two pastors’ churches in the CBD have not been the subject of noise complaints.
The noise crisis in Nairobi churches
Mosiria highlighted the ongoing noise pollution issue in the city, blaming the rapid rise of churches that prioritize loudspeakers over worship.
“I appreciate Pastor Ng’ang’a’s church because it’s in the CBD, but I’ve never heard any noise complaints from anyone. Other churches, however, will rent a four-story building and turn the first floor into a church with all speakers outside,” he lamented.
He recalled shutting down a church that operated at a structure of 20 mabati (iron sheet) housing units after numerous complaints from residents.
However, the church leaders dismissed the complaints, telling residents they were possessed by evil spirits for opposing the noise.
Investigating noise complaints incognito
To ensure fairness in handling complaints, Mosiria revealed that he sometimes goes undercover to verify noise complaints before taking action.
“Sometimes I get a complaint from a place like Roysambu, so I go incognito with a cap, sit with my friends, order my soda—because I don’t drink alcohol—and survey the area to confirm whether the complaints are genuine.
“Some people are malicious and give false information just to ruin businesses,” he explained.
Threats over his actions
Mosiria also disclosed that he has received threats over his efforts to curb noise pollution in Nairobi. Despite this, he remains committed to restoring order in the city.
Family responsibility over nightlife
Beyond noise pollution, Mosiria also advised men to prioritize their families over partying. “As a man, you should take care of your house, make sure your wife is comfortable, your kids are okay, and set at least one day a week for your family to avoid being an ‘uncle’ in your own household,” he urged.
His comments have sparked conversations on the role of churches, nightlife, and personal responsibility in maintaining order and morality in Nairobi.
