Chris Kirwa proposes vetting of anyone announcing public event in 2026
By Valerian Khakayi, December 27, 2025Kenyan veteran event organiser and corporate MC Christopher Kirwa has proposed strict vetting measures for anyone planning to announce or host a public event from 2026.
He says safety and security must become non-negotiable priorities in the events industry.
In a statement shared on his official Instagram account on Friday, December 26, 2025, Kirwa listed items event planners should prioritise, adding that by 2026, safety and security should be the first two items on every event’s budget and planning checklist, followed closely by experience and professional competence.
According to him, the current trend where virtually anyone can brand themselves as an event organiser poses serious risks to public safety.
“By 2026, the events industry must put safety and security first—they should be items 1 and 2 on every event’s budget and checklist,” Kirwa said.
“Lives are more important than shortcuts. From 2026 onwards, anyone announcing a public event should be vetted for capability and compliance before approval. No exceptions. Mic drop.”
He added that posting a poster on Instagram, launching a ticketing app, or having contacts for suppliers does not amount to professional event management.
“It’s unacceptable that anyone with a hobby, some disposable income, or a printed card can call themselves an event organiser. Posting a poster on Instagram, launching a ticketing app, or being able to phone suppliers does not equal professional event management,” he added.
Kirwa emphasised that proper event delivery requires structured planning, comprehensive risk assessments, supplier coordination, contingency planning, and proven operational capability.
He warned that shortcuts and improvisation in event planning can have devastating consequences, especially where large crowds are involved.
“Real event delivery requires planning, risk assessment, supplier management, contingency planning and proven operational capability,” Kirwa stated.
Occupy culture
He also criticised a section of Gen Z who gatecrash or occupy events, adding that expecting free access or services at events undermines the professionalism of the industry.
“Equally, you shouldn’t expect event organisers to give you free services by occupying their events. If you wouldn’t expect free fuel, food or legal services at a petrol station, eatery or law firm, you shouldn’t expect to gatecrash events and enter for free,” he added.
Kirwa’s proposal comes days after Karen Lojore lost her life in a stampede at Asake’s concert.