Rwanda imposes night curfew to limit noise pollution
Africa
By
Sharon Wanga and Agencies
| Aug 04, 2023
Rwanda has imposed a curfew on all "non-essential services" to reduce what it terms 'noise pollution.'
The Rwandan government announced earlier this week that the curfew will enhance effective regulation of night entertainment and noise pollution.
"For effective regulation of night-time entertainment and noise pollution, the Cabinet established closing time of non-essential services at 1.00 am on working days, and 2.00 am on weekends (Friday and Saturday), effective September 1, 2023," the Rwandese government announced.
According to AFP, the move has enraged nightclub owners who say it will hurt their businesses.
Under the hard-liner rule of President Paul Kagame, police in the East African nation have been cracking down on noise pollution, ordering bars to close, and confiscating equipment from entertainment venues.
READ MORE
French aid worker killed in DR Congo air strike
Rwanda hits back at US sanctions over M23 support in DR Congo
US slaps sanctions on Rwanda military over DR Congo 'violation'
DR Congo, M23 fighters trade accusations over ceasefire
Angola proposes new DR Congo ceasefire
South Africa to withdraw troops from UN mission in DR Congo
Kipyegon among super-fast stars invited for Sirikwa Classic XC tour
Deadly landslide strikes M23 held mining site in DRC
DR Congo city residents forced to adapt during year of M23 rule
South Korean ex-PM Han gets 23 years jail for martial law role
A nightclub owner who spoke to the news agency said the latest restrictions "were backward and will definitely kill businesses."
Last month, the Rwanda government issued noise pollution guidelines, limiting sound levels in commercial areas to 55 decibels at night.