Licenses for bars operating in Nairobi estates will not be renewed this month, according to provincial commissioner, Njoroge Ndirangu, who said many residents had complained about noise from the bars at night.

Bars which allowed immoral activities, as well as those operating illegally, would be closed, he warned.

Mr Ndirangu gave the example of bar owners who allowed strippers to operate within their premises, saying this was illegal.

He directed police to ensure clubs were operating according to the law.

From today up to November 12, when the next liquor licensing meeting will be held, officers will go round inspecting bars and talking to residents who live around the businesses," he said.

He clarified that the crackdown was not meant to be punitive, adding that the government supported income generating activities, but noted that proper vetting was necessary while granting licenses, and warned that the law would be applied strictly.

Before new applications were considered, he said, applicant must ensure they did not plan to operate bars near schools, churches or mosques.

Alongside the liquor licenses, the PC said, ne applicants must also obtain permits from local authorities, as well as an inspection report from Ministry of Health. Employees must have medical certificates as well.

Bar operators should ensure the environment in which they run their businesses were clean and secure.

"You must not sell alcohol to underage children; ensure you do not serve beer to police officers in uniform. These rules must be followed," said the PC.

Since the beginning of the year, some 4,613 applications have been processed. The Government had collected Sh16,093,580 as license fees, Mr Ndirangu said.