Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho has set safety requirements for Diwali fireworks displays.
Mining CS Hassan Joho directs organisers to secure permits and use authorised venues during the November 6–8 celebrations.
Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho has restricted Diwali fireworks displays to between 7pm and 11pm during the November 6–8, 2026 celebrations. Organisers must also obtain permits and follow safety requirements under the Explosives Act.
In a notice dated November 3, Joho urged the Hindu community to conduct orderly displays without inconveniencing other Kenyans. The three-day celebration runs from Friday to Sunday.
Diwali fireworks permits and safety rules
Organisers must secure permits from State Department for Mining offices at Madini House in Nairobi or county mining offices. Joho also limited displays to authorised venues, including clubs, hotels, temples, sports grounds and school compounds.
For any other venue, organisers must first obtain approval from an Inspector of Explosives. In addition, shells must not exceed four-inch calibre in urban and built-up areas unless an inspector grants an exemption.
Joho directed that only qualified, experienced and sober people should fire aerial shells and other aerial display fireworks. These requirements apply alongside the four-hour evening window throughout the celebrations.
Meanwhile, the ministry warned dealers against selling fireworks to children younger than 13. Such sales constitute an offence under the Explosives Act and could attract a hefty fine.
Dealers must also check permits before selling aerial display fireworks, including shells, rockets, Roman candles and cakes. Buyers must hold valid permits bearing an Inspector of Explosives’ signature.
Holiday applies to members of the Hindu faith
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Families traditionally light oil lamps called diyas, decorate homes, exchange gifts and gather for prayers and celebrations.
Fireworks also form part of the festivities. In some Hindu traditions, Diwali coincides with the Hindu New Year, marking a new calendar year and spiritual renewal.
In Kenya, however, the Public Holidays Act recognises Diwali as a holiday for members of the Hindu faith. It is not a nationwide public holiday for all Kenyans.
President William Ruto pledged in 2024 to make Diwali a national holiday, celebrated annually on November 1. However, that proposal remains unimplemented as of November 2026, so the holiday continues to apply only to the Hindu faith.
