The Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, under the leadership of CS Hassan Joho, has issued a public notice outlining strict regulations for the use of fireworks this New Year. The notice comes ahead of the festive season when fireworks displays are a common feature of celebrations, particularly on New Year’s Eve. With the festive season just around the corner, Joho’s guidelines aim to ensure safety and minimize disturbance to the general public.
The new rules emphasize that only competent and sober individuals are allowed to fire aerial shells and display fireworks. This measure is aimed at preventing accidents and ensuring that those handling fireworks have the necessary skills and judgment. The public is reminded that fireworks displays have been authorized by the government but are to be conducted under strict adherence to the regulations outlined in the Explosives Act (Cap 115), Laws of Kenya.
Fireworks Displays on Authorized Premises Only
One of the key stipulations from CS Joho is that public fireworks displays may only be held at sites that have been approved by the State Department of Mining. This restriction helps prevent unauthorized and potentially dangerous fireworks shows, reducing the risk of accidents in areas that are not designed to accommodate such activities safely. These authorized sites include clubs, hotels, churches, sports grounds, and school compounds, among others. An Inspector of Explosives must approve any site where a fireworks display is to take place.
Joho has also made it clear that any person intending to hold a firework display must apply for the necessary permits from the State Department for Mining. These permits are available at the department’s offices in Nairobi, Mombasa, Wundanyi, Kisumu, Eldoret, Nakuru, Nyeri, and Embu. The application process ensures that proper checks are made to confirm that the site and the individual intending to display fireworks are compliant with the safety regulations.
Time Restrictions for Fireworks Displays
In order to minimize inconvenience and ensure that celebrations do not disrupt the wider community, fireworks displays are restricted to between midnight (00:00 hours) and 12:30 am on December 31, 2024. This short window of time is designed to keep celebrations brief and contained, limiting noise and disruption to neighbors and passersby. The ministry has emphasized that fireworks displays should be carried out in an orderly manner, following set protocols to avoid accidents and disturbances.
Under the new regulations, display shells in urban and built-up areas should not exceed four inches in caliber, except where an Inspector of Explosives grants an exemption. This rule is in place to prevent damage and to ensure that fireworks do not pose a risk to people, property, or livestock in densely populated areas.
Competence and Sobriety Required for Firework Handling
Only competent individuals who are sober will be allowed to handle and fire aerial shells and other aerial fireworks. This rule ensures that only those with the necessary training and state of mind can manage the fireworks safely. It also addresses concerns about the risks posed when fireworks are handled by individuals under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The ministry’s directive underscores the importance of responsibility when dealing with potentially dangerous explosives.
Regulations for Licensed Fireworks Dealers
For licensed fireworks dealers, there are additional regulations to follow. No fireworks are to be sold to children below 13 years of age, as it is an offense under the Explosives Act. This restriction aims to prevent accidents and misuse of fireworks, especially among the young. Aerial display fireworks, such as shells, rockets, Roman candles, and cakes, can only be sold to people who hold valid permits to display fireworks. These permits must be duly signed by an Inspector of Explosives, ensuring that the buyer is qualified and authorized to handle such displays.
The Ministry has urged the public to adhere to these guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable New Year celebration. By following these rules, Kenyans can celebrate with fireworks responsibly, minimizing the risk of accidents and disturbances. The focus is on safety, orderliness, and respect for public spaces, ensuring that the festive season remains joyous for everyone. With these measures in place, CS Joho hopes to provide a framework that allows for safe enjoyment of fireworks while protecting the broader community from unnecessary hazards.
