Aluta: Karen Nyamu Threatens To Ban 24-Hour Nairobi Nightclubs

Nominated Senator, Karen Nyamu on Monday, November 28 threatened to mobilise efforts to ban the popular ‘Aluta Sundays’ held in various popular clubs across Nairobi.

In a short statement on her social media platforms, Nyamu issued her warning to club owners with the intent of cracking down on the overnight program that has grown sporadically in popularity among Nairobi's party-goers.

She lamented that the 'Aluta Sundays' are causing havoc among Kenyan youth who were spending most of their funds on the program instead of on constructive activities.

DJs Spapa and Brown Girl Nessa during a past event at Loft Lounge. /STANDARD DIGITAL

"Kuna kitu inaharibu vijana hapa Nairobi inaitwa ALUTA. Hio form me ndio nitaichoma (There is something spoiling the youth called Aluta. I'll be the one to disrupt that plan). Club owners this is your notice," she stated.

'Aluta' is a Sheng terminology which means to feel good, often associated with the use of weed.

The phenomenon of ‘Aluta Sundays’ began amongst popular club owners and DJs seeking to maintain the attendance of revellers throughout the weekend. In particular, after one popular club along Thika Road introduced it, several other clubs in Nairobi followed suit, making Aluta Sundays a popular strategy.

Tailored for enthusiasts of reggae music who are either reluctant to call it a night or simply seeking Sunday morning entertainment, ‘Aluta Sundays’ have become synonymous with the vibrant sounds of reggae artists.

The concept has gained immense popularity among club owners, leading to the establishment of designated zones dedicated to ‘Aluta Sundays’.

Contrary to hosting these events within the confines of the club, some establishments have opted to relocate Aluta fans to the parking area. By Sunday morning, the parking space is transformed, with all vehicles cleared out, making room for staff to arrange seating for the Aluta Sunday ‘service.’

Nyamu's sentiments sparked uproar amongst partygoers and business people, many believing that she was about to trigger a widespread crackdown that could affect the businesses of clubs.

"Shawrty for sherehe, chairman of disruptive partying and titties Tuesday wants to shut down Aluta? Can we pretend to be serious for a minute please?" Cynthia Mwangi posed.

Media personality Joyce Gituro however welcomed Senator Nyamu’s move. A few weeks ago, Gituro went viral while discussing ‘Aluta’ Sundays with her son Jakes Nyanjom.

Notably, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja in November 2022 cancelled licenses issued to nightclubs operating in residential areas as well as stopped renewals of the same, but the directive was opposed by Members of the Nairobi County Assembly who directed Sakaja to lift the order issued on November 25, 2022.