The Ministry of Mining has published a notice informing Kenyans of countrywide fireworks that will be lit for two days by the Hindu Community for the Diwali Celebrations.
In a notice dated Tuesday, the Ministry stated that the celebrations will be undertaken between November 11 to 12.
As such, the Ministry led by CS Salim Mvurya issued guidelines Kenyans will be expected to adhere to during the two-day festivities marked by the Hindu community.
As a precaution, the Ministry directed all those planning to use fireworks to seek authorisation from the Ministry's offices in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, and Nyeri.
The Ministry also specified that lighting the fireworks will only be permitted in specific areas including; clubs, temples, sports grounds, and school compounds.
All other areas have to be approved before fireworks are used.
"Displays are held between 1900hrs and 2300hrs only during the authorized dates. Display shells are limited to a maximum of four-inch calibre 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," read the notice in part.
On the other hand, fireworks dealers were cautioned against selling any product to children below the age of 13.
Dealers were also advised to seek clearance certificates issued by government officials before selling the fireworks.
Those who contravene the regulations were warned of hefty penalties given that unregulated use of fireworks can be hazardous and lead to the destruction of property and life.
"If the explosion is negligently caused and property is endangered, he shall be liable to a fine not exceeding five thousand shillings or, in default of payment, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding twelve months, or both," reads the Explosive Act in part.
"If the explosion is negligently caused and death results, he shall be liable to a fine not exceeding twenty thousand shillings or, in default of payment, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years."
