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IG Kanja sends warning on use of fireworks ahead of new year celebrations
31st December, 2025 08:24 PM
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has issued a warning to Kenyans on using fireworks ahead of the New Year celebrations, calling on them to be mindful of their neigbours.
In a statement issued through the National Police Service official X account on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, Kanja maintained that all fireworks should only be used by licensed operators with the necessary approvals from the relevant authorities.
“Regarding fireworks and other celebratory displays, we ask all Kenyans to be mindful of their neighbours, especially children, the elderly, and persons with special needs. Fireworks should only be used by licensed operators with the necessary approvals from the relevant authorities,” Kanja said.
On his part, Kanja warned that the unregulated use of fireworks poses serious risks, including fires, injuries, and unnecessary panic.
While warning against the use of unregulated fireworks, Kanja called on parents to know the whereabouts of their children during the celebrations.
“Unregulated use poses serious risks, including fires, injuries, and unnecessary panic. Let us celebrate in a manner that does not endanger others or disturb the public peace. Additionally, parents and guardians are encouraged to know where their children are and who they are with during the celebrations,” he added.
Business owners
On the other hand, Kanja called on all business owners and managers of entertainment venues to maintain order, avoid overcrowding, and comply with licensing and safety regulations.
“Business owners and managers of entertainment venues are reminded of their responsibility to maintain order, avoid overcrowding, and comply with licensing and safety regulations. As we begin the new year, let us choose peace over conflict, responsibility over recklessness, and care for one another over selfishness,” Kanja added.
He went on, adding that police officers are deployed in towns, residential areas, places of worship, entertainment venues, on transport corridors, and in other public spaces to safeguard lives and property.
However, security remains a shared responsibility while further urging all Kenyans to remain vigilant and take personal responsibility for their own safety and that of others.
Further, the police boss said that those attending places of worship, social gatherings, or entertainment venues are encouraged to be mindful of their surroundings, cooperate with security personnel, and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police officer or station, or via the established emergency lines, which are 999, 911, or 112.
Use of Alcohol
Moreover, Kanja asked Kenyans to drink responsibly and in moderation during these New Year’s celebrations.
“As we celebrate, I strongly appeal for moderation and responsible behaviour. Excessive consumption of alcohol often leads to preventable accidents, violence, and loss of life. Let us celebrate responsibly, with respect for ourselves, our families, and our communities,” he explained.
“I particularly call upon all motorists to exercise the utmost discipline on our roads. Do not drink and drive. To protect all road users, the NPS is working collaboratively with other agencies and will tonight conduct breathalyser operations across the country to deter drunk driving and save lives,” Kanja insisted.
While calling on motorists to cooperate fully with officers conducting operations, Kanja warned motorists against drinking and driving, while asking them to observe traffic rules, respect speed limits, and be considerate of other road users.
