Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho has outlined seven conditions for those intending to use fireworks during the Diwali celebrations.
Diwali and Hindu festivities are set to take place from Friday, November 1 to Saturday, November 2, 2024.
In a notice shared, Joho emphasized that fireworks displays must be conducted in a manner that does not disrupt the public. “The Hindu community is asked to ensure that fireworks are used in accordance with the Explosives Act Cap 115 of the Laws of Kenya, and that displays are managed to avoid inconveniencing the general public,” the CS stated.
He specified seven conditions that must be adhered to for fireworks displays during Diwali:
- Obtain the necessary permits from the State Department of Mining offices located in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, Nakuru, Nyeri, and Embu.
- Fireworks may only be used at authorized venues such as clubs, hotels, temples, sports grounds, school compounds, or any other location approved by an Inspector of Explosives.
- Displays are permitted only between 7 PM and 11 PM on the designated dates.
- The maximum caliber for display shells in urban and built-up areas is limited to four inches, unless otherwise exempted by an Inspector of Explosives.
- Only qualified and sober individuals are permitted to fire aerial shells and other aerial display fireworks.
- Fireworks dealers are prohibited from selling to children under the age of 13.
- Aerial display fireworks, including shells, rockets, Roman candles, and cakes, may only be sold to individuals holding permits signed by an Inspector of Explosives.
Diwali is known as the festival of lights in Hindu tradition, with various interpretations celebrated among different Indian religions.
