"We can no longer Sleep" -Mukula, Bugolobi homeowners petition Lukwago, NEMA & Police over church, nightclub noise

Capt. Mike Mukula, Chairman of the Bugolobi Homeowners and Tenants Association, has called on Kampala authorities to address the rising issue of noise pollution in the area. During a press conference on Monday, Mukula expressed concerns over the continuous disturbances caused by Pentecostal churches and nightclubs operating in residential neighbourhoods such as Bugolobi, Namuwongo, and Kitintale.

Mukula acknowledged the efforts of the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) to curb noise pollution, particularly from churches, but noted that more needs to be done.

“Some churches never seem to sleep,” Mukula said, comparing their 24-hour operations to nightclubs. He urged religious and entertainment establishments to respect residents' right to peace and rest.

The most significant issue for Bugolobi, according to Mukula, is the transformation of registered bars into full-fledged nightclubs along Bandali and Luthuli Rise.

These clubs operate loudly from Thursday through the weekend, disturbing the tranquillity of the residential area. Mukula pointed out that Bugolobi is zoned as a residential area by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), and such noise levels are unacceptable.

Additionally, Mukula raised concerns about other social ills spilling into Bugolobi, including prostitution and drug abuse, which have reportedly migrated from Kabalagala and Kansanga.

He also highlighted that several nightclubs in the area are run by foreign nationals, whom he accused of showing little concern for the wellbeing of local residents.

Mukula criticised alleged corruption within KCCA, claiming that some officials accept bribes to overlook violations of noise regulations. He appealed to Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, Nakawa councillors, and other city officials to take action and enforce proper zoning and noise controls in the city.

Mukula’s call to action comes in light of recent efforts by KCCA and NEMA to tackle noise pollution across Kampala. NEMA has introduced heavy penalties for environmental violations, while KCCA has set noise limits for residential areas at 50 decibels at night. Establishments violating these limits risk losing their trading licences​.

Mukula urged authorities to ensure that nightclubs are restricted to specific areas where noise can be better managed, adding,

“This wouldn’t happen in cities like London or Kigali.”