High Commission in Nairobi hosts International Vesak Day at UN Office

Nairobi, Kenya – In a momentous celebration that brought together various dignitaries and distinguished guests, the High Commission of Sri Lanka and the Royal Thai Embassy in Kenya jointly hosted the International Vesak Day 2024 at the United Nations Office in Nairobi. This significant event commemorated the Birth, Enlightenment, and Passing Away of Lord Buddha, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the UN General Assembly resolution 54/115, which officially recognized Vesak Day internationally.

The ceremony was graced by the esteemed presence of Venerable Dr. Ilukpitiye Pannasekara Thero, Chief Monk for the African Continent from the Buddhist Temple and Meditation Centre in Tanzania. Distinguished guests included the Director of the United Nations in Nairobi, Ms. Sandra Macharia, His Excellency Maurice Okoth Amisi, Director of Asia Pacific at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and numerous dignitaries, excellencies, and other distinguished attendees.

The UN Under-Secretary-General and Director of the United Nations Office in Nairobi, Ms. Sandra Macharia, delivered a special Vesak Day message from UN Secretary-General António Guterres. Guterres emphasized the profound resonance of Vesak’s principles with the goals of the United Nations. He highlighted that Buddha’s teachings of tolerance, compassion, and service to humanity provide solace and strength in today’s troubled times.

In a gesture of goodwill and solidarity, High Commissioner Kananathan accompanied by the representatives of Buddhist, Christian, Muslim and Hindu communities bestowed a sacred Buddha statue to the UN Offices in Kenya, symbolizing peace, enlightenment, and the profound spiritual connection between communities.

High Commissioner Kananathan expressed gratitude to the co-sponsors of the 1999 resolution. He highlighted the profound relevance of Vesak Day in today’s world, stressing the need for peace and compassion amidst modern challenges.

“This is a time for deep contemplation on Buddha’s timeless teachings,” Kananathan said. “Celebrating 25 years of UN recognition, Vesak Day serves as a reminder of the principles of love, compassion, and non-violence. It calls for reflection on our actions and inspires efforts toward social justice, environmental protection, and the alleviation of suffering.” He urged attendees to dedicate themselves to creating a world guided by wisdom, empathy, and respect for all beings, embracing Buddha’s qualities of love, compassion, joy, and calmness.

Kananathan also expressed sincere gratitude to participants of all religious beliefs, noting that Buddhism promotes world peace and universal harmony beyond faith, language, and cultural differences. The diverse attendance underscored a shared commitment to understanding, compassion, and cooperation for the betterment of the global community. He emphasized that true world peace can only be achieved through the creation of peaceful individuals, highlighting the UN’s role in building frameworks for global betterment.

The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Kenya actively engages in community events and celebrations that highlight shared values and foster global peace and cooperation. The celebration of Vesak Day at the UN underscored shared human values and the enduring impact of Buddha’s teachings on global peace and unity.