Is the noise pollution law fair?

The directive by Kigali City Council prohibiting noise pollution states that anyone unable to establish sound proof material for their musical equipment, whether a church or bar, is liable to a fine of Rwf100,000.  Society Magazine‘s Doreen Umutesi talked to Rwandans to find out what they thought about the issue.

Friday, March 29, 2013
Ignatius Kabagambe

The directive by Kigali City Council prohibiting noise pollution states that anyone unable to establish sound proof material for their musical equipment, whether a church or bar, is liable to a fine of Rwf100,000.  Society Magazine‘s Doreen Umutesi talked to Rwandans to find out what they thought about the issue. The most important aspect is how this will be implemented. If it’s to contain the noise then loud gatherings should be held in enclosed areas.Ignatius Kabagambe, Director of Media Development in RGBI would not say that the law doesn’t make sense but my worry is that there are inadequate resources available to implement these orders.Anitah Pendo, Radio PresenterMy opinion is simple. How is it determined that the noise made is pollution? Is our prosecution office ready and do they have the required equipment to handle such cases? Robert Mugabe, Online Journalist actressThis makes sense because Kigali City Council is an institution that serves the people. They have to make sure each person enjoys their rights and place a mechanism that addresses the interests of everyone. AimableSemukanya, Legal SpecialistThe law is unfair. People are entitled to do what they want since it’s a free country. With such orders, it’s like Kigali is a school. Zoe Kamahoro, StudentThere is a limit, given our African standards and culture, for example social gatherings like weddings are normally held outside and controlling noise in such situations is hard.  What’ the fate of such gatherings?Jonathan Issa, Architect The law makes sense but the way they implement it matters. I think it will be challenging especially determining the level of the noise and addressing the penalty aspect. Claudine UtujeMwagachuchu, Makeup Artist Churches in residential areas conduct overnight prayers and  affect people living in those areas.  However, did these policy makers think about the financial aspect? They need to control the mushrooming churches in residential areas.  Sylivanus Karemera, Resident of Kanombe