Authorities have shut down Oyster Bay, a popular restaurant located on Ndemi Road in Kilimani citing issues of noise pollution caused by loud music.
According to officials from the Nairobi City County government Kilimani residents have issued complaints.
Nairobi governor Johnson Sakaja had last year ordered the closure of a number of restaurants and entertainment spots over noise pollution leading to vicious opposition from the stakeholders in the industry who argued that hundreds of families would be at risk due to loss of jobs.
Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) of Nairobi also moved fast to stop the directive by adopting a report that required Governor Sakaja to lift the order on the closure of the restaurants and entertainment spots.
An adamant Governor Sakaja however maintained that his directive should be enforced.
The management has however maintained that the document from Nairobi City County Government was falsified and holds malicious intentions.
They further said that they hold on to the court order issued on October 17, 2022 barring anyone from shutting down the facility that has employed over 200 employees.
A staff member who spoke on grounds of anonymity decried the tough days ahead without a job while supporting a family of three.
“I’m devastated by the look of things. This job helps me support my children and my elderly parents. Where will 225 people get a job overnight in Nairobi with the state of affairs?” She asked.
“The management has complied while the purported document from Nairobi County Government says we should shut down. What’s the security of Kenyans doing business in their own country?” Another questioned.
If Oyster Bay faces permanent closure, over 200 families risk loss of jobs and crippled livelihoods.
As Nairobi’s biggest restaurant, with the capacity of up to 1,000 it’s closure sends a worrying signal to the business community who are facing harsh economic conditions in a bid to create opportunities for Kenyans.
In the recent past Kenyans have held street protest against the high cost of living, and dwindling income opportunities. Economic expert argue that regulatory hurdles are a big reason why big investors shy away from Kenya reducing job opportunities for the masses.
Politically instigated attacks such as the invasion of former president’s Northland farm and that of Raila Odinga’s firm has left the business community a very worried lot. Many business people are now worried that state organs and regulators can be used to unfairly target them, as it has happened before.
