Kenyan authorities have shut down the Alchemist Club in Westlands after a viral video exposed alleged racist practices and noise violations, prompting immediate regulatory action.
Gov. Ann Kananu issued an executive order directing the club's closure, citing the need to protect public order and social harmony. A multiagency task force was established to investigate the establishment's operations, with a report due within five days.
"We have an image to protect and the future, I have directed county executive committee members for the environment to institute a multiagency task force and a comprehensive report of the same to be made in the next 5 days," Kananu stated.
The venue, located near Sarit Roundabout, faces accusations of racial segregation through separate entry lines for different ethnic groups. Ten staff members, including the manager, have been charged with violating licensing regulations and promoting discrimination.
A patron shared footage showing apparent exclusion of non-Caucasian guests, sparking public outrage. The club previously drew controversy in 2016 when security denied entry to Black customers, according to reports.
"We must protect our county which exercises immense respect to all social races and strongly stands against any form of discrimination and noise pollution," Nairobi City County Executive for Environment Larry Wambua said.
Public complaints about excessive noise from the establishment led to its license revocation. Authorities are investigating links to unethical business practices connected to the venue.
"That club must be shut down and converted into a resource center before we open charges against the owners," activist Esther Mathai tweeted.
The governor urged citizens to report similar incidents through local government offices. The club's operators face potential criminal charges for discriminatory practices and environmental violations.
