Experts Link Noise Pollution to Hearing Loss in Nairobi

Health experts and researchers are raising serious concerns over the impact of noise pollution in Nairobi, linking it to a rise in hearing loss and other auditory disorders. A study of bus termini in Nairobi’s Central Business District found that noise levels regularly exceeded 90 dB(A), and nearly a quarter of people working there reported visiting a doctor for hearing-related problems. In addition, industrial workers in Nairobi report symptoms such as ringing in the ears, hearing impairment, and headaches—reflecting broader occupational health risks from uncontrolled noise.
Occupational health data strengthens these warnings. A study among workers at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) revealed that 15.3% of long-term ground and air crew had noise‑induced hearing loss (NIHL). Meanwhile, a separate investigation in Nairobi’s industrial plants found over 40% of workers exposed to loud machinery showed measurable hearing impairment.
Experts point to high ambient noise in the city—from road traffic, public transport, industrial zones, and equipment—as a growing threat to urban hearing health. A recent GIS-based modelling study mapped noise hotspots along major Nairobi roads, highlighting persistent exposure above recommended safe limits. Audiologists also caution about the role of personal habits. Dr Richard Mwangi of Nairobi has warned that everyday behavior—like listening to loud music in public transport using earbuds—can compound harm to hearing.
To counter this trend, researchers are calling for stronger enforcement of existing noise regulations, more urban noise monitoring, and better public awareness. They recommend regular hearing screenings, especially for workers in high-risk environments, and wider use of hearing protection. Noise pollution is not just a nuisance — it’s a public health threat, one expert says, emphasizing that early detection and prevention are key to preserving hearing in Nairobi’s increasingly loud environment.