The Ministry of Blue Economy and Mining has issued a warning on fireworks displays ahead of Diwali holiday celebrations.
In a notice on Tuesday, November 7, the ministry stated that because the upcoming holidays were traditionally celebrated using fireworks, it was important that other Kenyans were not inconvenienced.
Notably, Diwali, set for November 10 and 12, is celebrated by Hindus across the country as new year festivities.
Consequently, the Hindu community was requested to carry out the fireworks display within the stipulated regulations.
“The Hindu community is requested to ensure that fireworks displays are carried out within the requirements of the Explosives Act, Cap 115 of the Laws of Kenya.
“Fireworks displays should be carried out in an orderly manner so that members of the general public are not inconvenienced,” the statement read in part.
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Regulations for Fireworks Display
Subsequently, the government stated that permits to hold fireworks displays could only be obtained from the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, State Department for Mining.
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In addition, it indicated that fireworks could be used only at the authorized venues such as clubs, hotels, temples, sports grounds, school compounds or any other venue authorized by an inspector.
Regarding timing, the ministry stated that explosives could only be held between 7:00 pm and 11:00 pm within the stipulated dates.
“Display shells are limited to a maximum of four-inch caliber in all venues in urban and built- up areas except as may be exempted by an Inspector of Explosives in writing.
“Only qualified, experienced and sober persons shall be allowed to fire aerial shells,” detailed the notice.
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Instructions For dealers
At the same time, the Ministry of Blue Economy and Mining issued regulations for fireworks dealers.
According to the authority, the dealers ought to ensure that fireworks are not sold to any child who is below the age of 13 years.
“As doing so is an offense under the Explosives Act, Cap 115,” explained the notice.
On the other hand, dealers were warned against selling display fireworks to individuals without permits.
“Aerial display fireworks (Shells, Roman candles and cakes) are only sold to holders of permits to display fireworks duly signed by an Inspector of Explosive,” it stated.
