Event companies want regulation on noise pollution streamlined

Companies dealing in entertainment are appealing for clearer rules and regulations regarding noise pollution, following previous incidences where live-concerts and parties have been stopped. The appeal came during a weekly talk show – Cross Fire – that airs on Contact FM on Sunday afternoons. According to McDavis Genza of Show Time Events, one of the local entertainment companies and organizes of the popular Jungle Party, they are sometimes asked to shut-down abruptly even when they have all the required paper work. “We invest a lot of money in organising these events. We expect many people to show up. That is why we have to ensure that we have all the required papers so that we don’t disappoint our audience,” Ngehazo said during the show. The talk show also featured the Mayor of Gasabo Willy Ndizeye and Ignatius Kabagambe, a Director General in the Office of the Prime Minister. Every December 31, a party is held to usher in the New Year. The event, referred to as Happy people, attracts mainly young people and members of the Diaspora. According to Genza, who was among the organisers of last year’s event, despite having the permission, they were asked to shut down prematurely. “The event was held in the premises of the Foreign Affairs Ministry; we had acquired all the necessary papers. The party began at 9 p.m. and was supposed to run up to 9 a.m., but at 4 a.m., the police came and closed it claiming too much noise,” he said. The Mayor of Gasabo District, Ndizeye pointed out that while there is no way for authorities to measure noise, in the event that someone complains about the noise, the police intervenes. “When we issue permission for the events to take place, we notify the police as well,” the Mayor said, adding that those who want to play loud music should use sound proof facilities. Ndizeye added that the City Council is currently working on a plan to make Kigali a lively city but insisted that the concerns of all people ought to also be put into consideration. edwin.musoni@newtimes.co.rw

National

Event companies want regulation on noise pollution streamlined