Permits Required for New Year Fireworks Celebration, Kenya Government Says

Kenyans planning to showcase fireworks on New Year are required to obtain permits, according to an announcement from the State Department for Mining.

It is necessary to fulfil this requirement To comply with the Explosives Act which imposes stringent rules and oversight on the sale of fireworks. Furthermore, the government has decreed that representatives from the State Department of Mining must be informed and in attendance at all national New Year fireworks festivities. According to the Explosives Act, no public exhibition of fireworks may occur without the explicit approval of an inspector in written form.

Moreover, the Act cautions that those who showcase fireworks without authorization will face legal charges and be summoned to appear in a court of justice. Additionally, the Act bestows the opportunity to challenge a rejection of consent or disapproval of a unique import permit within a fortnight of being notified. The Minister's verdict regarding such an appeal is conclusive and cannot be disputed in any judicial institution.

Highlighting the significance of employing dual packaging for explosives of any kind, the inner package must not exceed 500 grams of explosives, while the outer package is limited to a maximum of 10 kilograms of explosives. Violating these packaging regulations, as stated in the Act, will result in being charged with an offence. Additionally, the department strongly underscores the importance of adhering to all safety precautions as fireworks possess a high level of explosiveness and have the potential to trigger fires and cause a range of accidents.

Individuals must be cautious when dealing with explosives as any mishandling can lead to devastating consequences such as severe accidents, extensive fires, and the loss of both property and lives. To obtain the required permits, individuals must approach the Inspector of Explosives within the Department of Mining.