Hindus in Kenya to celebrate Diwali from October 17-20
The Hindu community in Kenya is set to celebrate Diwali and the Hindu New Year from Friday, October 17, to Monday, October 20, 2025.
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar. It symbolises the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
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During the celebration, homes, temples, and public spaces are illuminated with lamps and decorative lights, and families come together to pray, exchange gifts, and share meals.
The announcement was made by the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs in a public notice dated Tuesday, October 14, 2025.
According to the Ministry, the celebrations, traditionally marked by fireworks and colourful displays, will be held at authorised venues nationwide.
The government has, however, reminded the community to ensure that all fireworks activities strictly comply with the provisions of the Explosives Act, Cap 115, Laws of Kenya.
According to the statement, all fireworks displays should be conducted in an orderly and safe manner to prevent causing inconvenience or danger to members of the public.
“Fireworks displays should be carried out within the requirements of the law and in a manner that ensures public safety,” the statement reads.
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Organisers and institutions planning fireworks events have been directed to obtain the necessary permits from the State Department for Mining or the County Mining Offices before holding any display.
Guidelines for fireworks displays
The government outlined several guidelines to ensure that the celebrations proceed smoothly:
- Fireworks must only be used at authorised venues such as clubs, hotels, temples, sports grounds, school compounds, or any other location approved by an Inspector of Explosives.
- Displays will be permitted only between 7:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. during the approved celebration dates.
- The maximum calibre for display shells has been set at four inches in all urban and built-up areas unless an exemption is granted by an Inspector of Explosives.
- Only qualified, experienced, and sober persons will be allowed to handle or fire aerial shells and other display fireworks.
Regulations for fireworks dealers
Dealers in fireworks have also been reminded to adhere strictly to the law. It is an offence under the Explosives Act to sell fireworks to children below the age of 13 years.
Additionally, aerial display fireworks such as shells, rockets, Roman candles, and cakes may only be sold to individuals or institutions holding valid permits duly signed by an Inspector of Explosives.
The Ministry further emphasised that safety remains a top priority during the festivities and warned that any violations of the set regulations would attract penalties under existing laws.
The government, in its message, extended warm wishes to the Hindu community in Kenya as they prepare to mark this significant occasion.
“We take this opportunity to wish the Hindu community a Happy Diwali and a Prosperous New Year.”
