The lakeside city of Kisumu is on the cusp of hosting its first ever swarm drone light show, a breathtaking aerial spectacle that promises to transform the night sky into a canvas of light, colour and innovation as the festive season gathers momentum.

Organisers say hundreds of synchronised drones will soar above the city in meticulously choreographed formations, creating luminous images and mesmerizing patterns in a display designed to usher in the Christmas and New Year celebrations with unprecedented flair.

The ambitious event is being spearheaded by J Spiral Techniques, a fireworks and pyrotechnics company that recently established a presence in Kisumu.

The firm is currently engaging the Kisumu County Government and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) to secure approvals and ensure compliance with aviation and safety regulations before the show takes flight.

Speaking in Kisumu, the company’s Branch Manager and Master Projection Artist, Zamir Nurali, described the proposed event as a landmark entertainment experience that would introduce residents to a cutting-edge form of aerial artistry.

“We are in discussions with the Kisumu County Government and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority on how we can deliver a truly captivating drone show for the people of Kisumu,” said Nurali.

He explained that the display would involve hundreds of drones operating in perfect synchronisation, using advanced technology to project striking visual formations across the night sky.

According to Nurali, drone light shows are rapidly emerging as an innovative alternative to conventional fireworks at weddings, birthdays, corporate functions and large public celebrations across the world.

The company hopes to stage the inaugural show before the end of the year, with the scale and intricacy of the aerial display determining the overall investment required. While a basic drone performance can cost from approximately Sh200,000, larger and more sophisticated productions command significantly higher budgets.

The planned showcase underscores Kisumu’s growing reputation as a hub for innovation and entertainment. It also reflects the company’s strategy to expand beyond Nairobi, where it previously staged what was described as Kenya’s first public drone light show during the unveiling of Purple Dot Tower along Mombasa Road.

Unlike traditional fireworks, drone technology uses multiple illuminated drones to create synchronized aerial graphics and animated displays, offering audiences an immersive and environmentally friendly visual experience.

Nurali emphasized that the company intends to make drone entertainment accessible to ordinary residents rather than limiting it to corporate organisations and exclusive private events.

“We want everyone to enjoy drone shows, whether at weddings, birthday parties or community celebrations. This should not be reserved for a select few,” he said.

In addition to entertainment, the initiative is expected to foster technological skills development among young people. The company is collaborating with Flying Labs Kisumu to identify and train local drone pilots, engineers and technology enthusiasts.

The programme aims to equip youth with practical skills in drone operations, maintenance and related technical fields, potentially opening up new employment and entrepreneurship opportunities within the emerging drone industry.

Nurali described Kisumu as a strategic destination for investment due to its expanding economy, vibrant culture and rapidly growing urban population.

Beyond the planned aerial extravaganza, the company has also pledged to adhere to government regulations governing fireworks and drone operations, while promoting responsible celebrations during the festive season.

As anticipation builds, the proposed drone showcase could mark a defining moment for Kisumu, blending technology, creativity and entertainment in a dazzling display that may redefine how the city celebrates major public events.

“Karibuni. We are here for everyone, from the ordinary mwananchi to the mama mboga and their children. We want everybody to come and enjoy the experience,” Nurali sa