As Kenya gears up to usher in 2025, the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs has issued a public notice outlining strict regulations for the use of fireworks during New Year celebrations.
The guidelines, announced by Cabinet Secretary Hassan Ali Joho, aim to ensure public safety and compliance with the Explosives Act Cap 115 Laws of Kenya.
According to the directive, fireworks displays will only be allowed at venues authorized by the State Department for Mining. These include clubs, hotels, churches, sports grounds, school compounds, and other sites approved by an Inspector of Explosives.
The ministry emphasized that all necessary permits must be obtained from State Department offices in cities such as Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Eldoret. Fireworks must also be sourced exclusively from licensed dealers, and those organizing displays are required to adhere to a set of safety guidelines.
Key regulations include limiting aerial display shells to a maximum of four-inch caliber in urban and built-up areas, with exceptions only granted by inspectors.
Displays are restricted to a 30-minute window between 12:00 a.m. and 12:30 a.m. on December 31, 2024. Additionally, only qualified, experienced, and sober individuals are allowed to handle and fire the fireworks.
The notice also prohibits the sale of fireworks to children under the age of 13, with severe penalties for violators. Vendors can only sell aerial display fireworks to individuals holding official permits.
The ministry called on the public to ensure that celebrations remain orderly and do not inconvenience others. “We take this opportunity to wish everyone a prosperous New Year,” said Hon. Hassan Ali Jo