Meru County Alcoholic Drinks Control Board Chief Executive Officer Gitonga Akubu on Tuesday led a multi-agency meeting that resolved a long-running dispute between residents of Tùntù Estate and proprietors of BlackPerch entertainment spot, paving the way for coexistence between investors and the surrounding community.
The meeting brought together BlackPerch management, the chairperson of Tùntù Estate, and leaders representing the national government within Meru County, following complaints by residents over noise pollution and obstruction of public roads caused by customers visiting the establishment.
Speaking after the meeting, Akubu said the discussions were successful and resulted in a clear agreement addressing the core issues that had caused tension between the two sides.
He noted that noise and parking had been identified as the main concerns and that concrete timelines had been agreed upon to resolve them.
“We have agreed very well that BlackPerch should install soundproofing in the areas where there is none by next week. We have also agreed that parking should be sought within one month so that customers don’t block the road,” said Akubu.
Under the agreement, BlackPerch proprietors committed to installing soundproofing materials to cushion nearby residents from noise pollution, especially during night hours.
In addition, the establishment was directed to identify alternative parking arrangements to ensure customers do not obstruct roads or block access to private gates within the estate.
Akubu further emphasized that customers will no longer be allowed to park along the road or block entrances to residential homes, both during the day and at night, noting that enforcement will be carried out to ensure compliance.
The Alcoholic Drinks Control Board CEO also used the occasion to underline the county administration’s broader approach to governance, which prioritizes peaceful coexistence and early resolution of disputes.
He said his actions reflected the leadership philosophy of Meru Governor Mutuma M’Ethingia, whom he represents in matters relating to alcohol regulation.
Akubu explained that the governor has consistently directed county officers to promote harmony, prevent conflicts before they escalate, and strike a balance between encouraging investment and protecting the rights of residents.
He added that while Meru County remains open to investors, businesses must operate responsibly and within the law.
“In these positions, when the Governor appointed us, he made it clear that all he wanted is peace. He told us that prevention is better than cure and that we should prevent any sort of problem that might come up in Meru, even as we encourage investors who do not infringe on the rights of others,” said Akubu.
Tùntù Estate chairperson welcomed the intervention, noting the meeting demonstrated responsive leadership and a willingness by county authorities to listen to concerns.
The estate leadership noted that the dispute had caused unease among residents but expressed optimism that the agreed measures would restore calm in the area.
In addition, the chairperson thanked the Alcoholic Drinks Control Board for engaging all parties without bias and ensuring that residents’ grievances were addressed fairly.
He also reassured residents that the presence of BlackPerch was not meant to disrupt their lives but to contribute to the local economy.
“BlackPerch is not coming to trouble us but rather to uplift the economy of Meru County. We as residents wish to live with them in the right manner, and we encourage investors to come to Meru as long as they do not infringe on our rights,” said the Chairperson.
Edited by John Majau
