NAIROBI, Kenya– Kenyans across the country welcomed the New Year 2026 with a mix of fireworks displays, family gatherings, church services and nationwide celebrations, as the National Police Service (NPS) reported a largely peaceful transition into the new year.
Fireworks lit up the skies in major cities and towns, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu and Eldoret, as crowds gathered to mark the midnight countdown.
In Nairobi, organised displays at key venues drew large audiences, while licensed operators conducted fireworks shows that complied with safety regulations.
In coastal counties, firework displays along beaches in Mombasa and Diani provided scenic backdrops for families and visitors.
Thousands had gathered by the Indian Ocean shoreline to enjoy the celebrations, with local authorities coordinating crowd control and safety measures.
The NPS, under the leadership of Inspector General Douglas Kanja, maintained a visible presence throughout the country.
Officers were deployed in high‑traffic locations, residential areas, entertainment hubs, transport corridors, and public gathering spots to ensure order and public safety.
According to police reports, no major security incidents were recorded during the celebrations. Authorities credited advance planning, community cooperation, and enhanced patrols for maintaining peace late into the night.
Two Rivers stage a 28-minute spectacular fireworks as thousands gather to usher the New Year.
The traffic department recorded a reduced number of road accidents compared to previous years, attributed in part to the strict enforcement of drunk driving laws and widespread breathalyser checkpoints.
Motorists were regularly reminded not to drink and drive, a campaign that was echoed across radio, television and social media platforms in the days leading up to New Year’s Eve.
Fireworks safety was a key focus for security agencies. Only licensed operators with official approvals were permitted to conduct shows, and unregulated use of fireworks was widely discouraged.
Local fire departments were on standby to respond quickly to any accidental fires or injuries resulting from celebratory pyrotechnics.
Parents were urged to watch over their children, and venue managers were reminded to prevent overcrowding and comply with safety regulations.
Emergency services, including police, ambulance and fire teams, reported readiness across all cities.
