CS Hassan Joho Restricts Diwali Fireworks to 7pm–11pm, Issues Strict Safety Rules
Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho has restricted fireworks displays during this year’s Diwali celebrations to between 7pm and 11pm, warning organisers and dealers to comply with Kenya’s explosives regulations.
In a notice dated Tuesday, November 3, Joho said the restrictions would apply throughout the three-day celebrations scheduled for Friday, November 6, to Sunday, November 8, 2026.
“The Hindu community is requested to ensure that fireworks displays are carried out within the requirements of the Explosives Act Cap 115 Laws of Kenya. Fireworks displays should be carried out in an orderly manner so that the general public are not inconvenienced,” Joho announced.
The measures are intended to regulate the use of fireworks during the festivities while protecting residents, property and people attending celebrations across the country.
Organisers Must Obtain Fireworks Permits
Joho directed organisers to obtain the necessary permits from the State Department for Mining before conducting fireworks displays.
Applications can be made at Madini House in Nairobi or through the respective county mining offices.
The CS also restricted fireworks displays to authorised venues, including clubs, hotels, temples, sports grounds and school compounds. Any other venue must receive approval from an Inspector of Explosives before being used.
The directive places responsibility on event organisers to confirm that their venues meet the required safety standards and that all necessary permissions have been secured.
Organisers are also expected to ensure that fireworks displays do not expose spectators or nearby residents to unnecessary risks.
Strict Rules for Fireworks Operators
The ministry has limited fireworks display shells to a maximum calibre of four inches in urban and built-up areas, unless an Inspector of Explosives grants an exemption.
Joho further stated that only people with the necessary experience and qualifications would be permitted to handle aerial fireworks.
“Only qualified, experienced and sober persons shall be allowed to fire aerial shells and other aerial display fireworks,” Joho stated.
The requirement is intended to reduce the risk of accidents caused by improper handling, poor judgement or a lack of technical knowledge.
The ministry’s notice also places restrictions on the sale of fireworks, particularly to children and people who do not have the required permits.
Dealers Warned Against Selling Fireworks to Children
Fireworks dealers have been warned against selling fireworks to children under the age of 13.
According to the ministry, such sales constitute an offence under the Explosives Act and may attract a substantial fine.
Dealers have also been directed to sell aerial display fireworks, including shells, rockets, Roman candles and cakes, only to individuals holding valid permits signed by an Inspector of Explosives.
The requirements apply to the sale and use of fireworks during the celebrations and are intended to strengthen accountability among suppliers and event organisers.
Members of the public planning private or organised displays are therefore expected to confirm the applicable permit requirements before purchasing or using fireworks.
What Diwali Means to the Hindu Community
Diwali, widely known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important celebrations in the Hindu faith. It symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
The festival is traditionally marked by lighting oil lamps known as diyas, decorating homes, exchanging gifts, holding prayers and gathering with family and friends. Fireworks are also used in many communities to mark the occasion.
In some Hindu traditions, Diwali coincides with the Hindu New Year, representing a period of renewal and fresh beginnings.
In Kenya, Diwali is recognised as a public holiday for members of the Hindu faith under the Public Holidays Act, rather than a nationwide public holiday for all citizens.
President William Ruto pledged in 2024 to formalise Diwali as a national holiday. However, as of November 2026, the proposal has not resulted in the festival becoming a nationwide public holiday.
As celebrations approach, Joho’s directive places emphasis on compliance with permits, authorised venues, approved operating hours and the safe handling of fireworks.
Residents and organisers are expected to observe the rules throughout the three-day festival to ensure that celebrations proceed without unnecessary disruption or safety incidents.
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CS Hassan Joho Restricts Diwali Fireworks to 7pm–11pm, Issues Strict Safety Rules
