The Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs has issued strict safety regulations governing the use of fireworks ahead of this year’s Diwali celebrations, restricting display windows and mandating strict compliance with national safety laws.
In a public notice issued on Tuesday, November 3, Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Ali Joho directed that fireworks displays during the multi-day festival must strictly take place between 7:00 PM and 11:00 PM on designated celebration days.
The government reiterated that organizers must obtain formal permits from the State Department for Mining offices at Madini House or regional county mining offices prior to staging any fireworks event.
Strict Compliance Under the Explosives Act
CS Joho urged the Hindu community to ensure that all fireworks activities comply with the provisions of the Explosives Act (Cap 115 of the Laws of Kenya) to guarantee public safety and prevent disruption.
“Fireworks displays should be carried out in an orderly manner so that the general public are not inconvenienced,” the Ministry stated in its public directive.
Key directives issued by the Ministry include:
- Approved Venues Only: Fireworks displays are restricted to licensed locations, such as temples, clubs, hotels, sports grounds, and school compounds. Unlisted private or public spaces require express authorization from an Inspector of Explosives.
- Technical Shell Limits: Aerial display shells used within urban and residential areas must not exceed a four-inch calibre without an official exemption certificate.
- Permits for Vendors: Fireworks dealers are restricted from selling display items—including aerial rockets, Roman candles, and fireworks cakes—to individuals without valid permits signed by an Inspector of Explosives.
- Protection of Minors: The sale or hand-off of fireworks to children under the age of 13 remains strictly prohibited under national law.
The Ministry emphasized that security agencies and officers from the Inspectorate of Explosives will monitor venues across major urban centers to enforce compliance throughout the festive period.