The Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs has issued strict guidelines on the use of fireworks during New Year celebrations, authorizing displays only at venues approved by the State Department for Mining. The move seeks to ensure public safety, order, and compliance with the Explosives Act Cap 115 Laws of Kenya.
In a public notice, Cabinet Secretary Hon. Hassan Ali Joho urged all parties organizing firework displays to adhere to regulatory requirements. “Fireworks displays should be carried out in an orderly manner so that the general public are not inconvenienced,” the statement emphasized.
The ministry specified that necessary permits must be secured from its offices in key cities, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret. Displays are strictly limited to authorized venues such as hotels, clubs, churches, and sports grounds.
Key rules include sourcing fireworks exclusively from licensed dealers and ensuring qualified, experienced, and sober personnel handle the displays. Displays are permitted only within a narrow timeframe—from 0000hrs to 0030hrs on 31st December 2024.
The government also outlined restrictions on the caliber of display shells, limiting them to a maximum of four inches in urban and built-up areas unless explicitly exempted.
Firework dealers were warned against selling fireworks to individuals under the age of 13, an act that constitutes an offense under the Explosives Act. “Only permit holders duly signed by an Inspector of Explosives are authorized to purchase aerial display fireworks,” the notice read.
The ministry’s directive aims to balance festive celebrations with public safety concerns and legal compliance. Citizens have been urged to follow the outlined protocols to avoid disruptions or legal penalties.
“We take this opportunity to wish everyone a Prosperous New Year,” Hon. Joho concluded.
