Gov't Asks Kenyans To Seek Permits Before Using Fireworks To Usher In New Year, Cite Safety Concerns

• The Principal Secretary for Mining, Elijah Mwangi, warned of the safety risks associated with fireworks
• Mwangi emphasised the need for responsibility and protection of lives, requiring Kenyans to seek permission for fireworks use
• Officials within the State Department For Mining have been tasked with ensuring safety compliance during fireworks displays

Didacus Malowa, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

Nairobi - The government has issued an advisory on the use of fireworks ahead of the New Year festivities.

For years, the country has witnessed spectacular fireworks displays in major cities and towns as Kenyans mark the beginning of a new year.

However, Principal Secretary for Mining Elijah Mwangi has warned Kenyans ahead of Monday's January 1 celebrations.

In a statement on X on Saturday, December 30, the PS stated that despite being a beautiful occasion, the fireworks are a safety risk.

"By their very nature, fireworks are explosives. They are dangerous. Any careless handling has potential to turn into a serious accident, trigger fire outbreaks, cause loss of property and even deaths," he stated.

Kenyans to require permits before using fireworks

Mwangi stated that there was a need to ensure responsibility and the protection of lives during the use of fireworks.

He said Kenyans would have to seek permission from the Inspector of Explosives before using fireworks.

"Protection of lives and property calls for strict regulations and control of sale, storage and usage of fireworks as stipulated under Explosives Act. Persons intending to stage fireworks display are required to Get a permit from the Inspector of Explosives under the SDM. As you celebrate and make merry, always think about your safety and that of your loved ones," continued his statement.

He tasked officials within the State Department For Mining to ensure compliance with all safety measures and said officers from the department should be present during fireworks displays.

Fireworks display causes stampede

Earlier in the year, nine people were confirmed dead following a stampede at Uganda's Freedom City Mall in Kampala.

In a statement, Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson ASP Luke Owoyesigyire said the incident happened after the presiding Master of Ceremonies encouraged attendees to go outside and watch the fireworks display.

While returning after the display, the huge crowd surge led to a stampede, killing five people at the scene.

“It is alleged that the incident occurred at midnight when the event's MC encouraged attendees to go outside and watch the fireworks display. After the display ended, a stampede ensued-resulting into the instant deaths of five people,” reported Owoyesigyire.