As Diwali and Hindu New Year approach, the Ministry of Mining and Blue Economy has issued clear rules to ensure fireworks displays are safe and controlled. The celebrations are set to run from Friday, October 17, to Monday, October 20, 2025, and fireworks remain a key feature of these cultural events.
Cabinet Secretary Hassan Ali Joho in a notice released on Tuesday, emphasized that all fireworks activities must comply with the Explosives Act, Cap 115 of the Laws of Kenya.
“Fireworks displays should be carried out in an orderly manner so that the general public are not inconvenienced,” he said, stressing the importance of safety for both participants and the public.
Event organizers are required to secure permits from both the State Department for Mining and County Mining Offices before conducting any fireworks display.
Displays must only take place in approved locations such as temples, hotels, clubs, sports grounds, school compounds, or other areas authorized by an Inspector of Explosives.
The government further specified that fireworks displays in urban and densely populated areas should use shells no larger than four inches in caliber unless specifically allowed by an Inspector.
Only qualified and sober individuals are permitted to handle aerial shells and other high-risk fireworks.
Dealers are also reminded that selling fireworks to children under 13 is prohibited under the Explosives Act. Aerial fireworks—including rockets, shells, Roman candles, and cakes—can only be sold to persons holding valid display permits issued by an Inspector of Explosives.
Diwali: Celebrating Light and Joy
Diwali, also celebrated by Jain and Sikh communities, spans five days, each carrying its own significance and traditions:
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Dhanteras: On the first day, people often purchase gold, silver, or new household items for good luck. Homes are cleaned in honour of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, while some also pay respects to Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda, and Yamaraj, the god of death.
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Choti Diwali (Naraka Chaturdashi): On the second day, people celebrate Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon king Narakasura. The day involves early morning rituals, home cleaning, and decorating with rangolis and diyas.
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Diwali (Lakshmi Puja): The third and main day of Diwali is a time for family gatherings, gift exchanges, feasting, and worshipping Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.
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Padwa (Govardhan Puja): The fourth day celebrates the bond between spouses, with husbands traditionally gifting their wives. This day also commemorates Lord Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill to protect the villagers of Vrindavan.
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Bhai Dooj: The final day celebrates the love between siblings. Sisters often mark their brothers’ foreheads with a tilak, while brothers present gifts to their sisters.