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Geoffrey Mosiria urges CBD matatu operators to switch off loud music and avoid unnecessary hooting
01st January, 2026 08:28 AM
Nairobi County’s Citizen Engagement and Customer Care boss, Geoffrey Mosiria, has appealed to matatu operators operating within the Central Business District (CBD) to curb noise pollution by switching off loud music and refraining from unnecessary hooting, particularly in business areas.
In a statement on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, Mosiria said the county government continues to receive numerous complaints from shop owners in the CBD about excessive noise from matatus.
He noted that loud music and constant hooting have disrupted normal business operations, making it difficult for traders to engage customers, hold conversations, or make and receive phone calls in a conducive environment.
“This noise pollution has adversely affected businesses, with many shop owners unable to properly engage with customers, make or receive phone calls in peace, and, in some cases, experiencing health complications linked to prolonged exposure to excessive noise,” he stated.
He emphasised that noise pollution not only affects productivity but also undermines the general well-being of those working in the area.
“I am therefore appealing to all matatu operators operating within the CBD to switch off loud music and desist from unnecessary hooting, especially in business zones,” Mosiria said.
He urged public transport operators to be considerate and cooperate in maintaining order and a conducive working environment in the city centre, adding that peaceful coexistence between transport operators, businesses, and the public is key to a functional and vibrant CBD.
Air Pollution
This comes a month after Mosiria issued a stern warning to residents after intercepting an incident of illegal open-air burning, reminding the public that the practice is strictly prohibited and carries heavy penalties.
In a statement on Monday, November 17, 2025, Mosiria says he spotted a large plume of smoke and went to investigate, only to find a security guard burning waste in the open, producing thick smoke that was drifting into nearby homes.
“Shockingly, it was a security guard who had set waste on fire. The smoke was invading people’s houses,” he said, adding that evidence of dry ash showed this was not the first time such burning had taken place.
He noted that open-air burning poses serious health risks, particularly to children, people with asthma, and those with respiratory complications.
“I issued the man a stern warning to extinguish the fire immediately and instructed that all their waste must be collected by a licensed PSP, not burned. Failure to comply will result in further action,” Mosiria stated.
He emphasised that the dangers of open-air burning go beyond inconvenience. The smoke pollutes the air, worsens respiratory illnesses, destroys soil quality, contaminates water sources, harms wildlife, and can easily lead to uncontrolled fires.
“This is why it remains strictly prohibited,” he added.
