The Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs in Kenya has issued strict guidelines governing the use of fireworks for Diwali and Hindu New Year celebrations, which are scheduled from Friday, November 1, to Saturday, November 2, 2024. The ministry’s directive aims to ensure public safety and minimize disturbances during the festivities.
A statement from the ministry emphasized that the Hindu community is required to comply with regulations as per the Explosives Act Cap 115 Laws of Kenya. Cabinet Secretary Hon. Hassan Ali Joho noted, “Fireworks displays should be conducted in an orderly manner to ensure the general public is not inconvenienced.”
The guidelines specify that permits are mandatory for any fireworks displays. Permits can be obtained from the State Department for Mining offices located in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, Nakuru, Nyeri, and Embu.
“Only authorized venues such as clubs, hotels, temples, sports grounds, and school compounds, or other sites approved by an inspector of explosives, are permitted for fireworks displays,” the statement reads. In addition, all fireworks displays must take place between 7:00 PM and 11:00 PM on the designated days to reduce noise disruptions.
In line with safety protocols, only fireworks with a maximum caliber of four inches are allowed for use in urban and densely populated areas, as inspected and approved by a certified explosives inspector. Furthermore, the ministry has restricted fireworks handling to qualified and sober individuals who will oversee both aerial and ground-level displays.
The directive also specifies that fireworks should not be sold to children below the age of thirteen. Fireworks dealers are advised to ensure that only sparklers, wheels, rockets, and roman candles are sold to patrons, with all transactions requiring permits. “Dealers are to adhere to these regulations to prevent any mishaps or misuse of fireworks during the celebrations,” the notice states.
In his closing remarks, Joho extended best wishes to the Hindu community. “We take this opportunity to wish the Hindu community a happy Diwali and a prosperous New Year.”
