The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Nairobi, together with the Royal Thai Embassy in Nairobi, jointly commemorated the International Observance of the Day of Vesak 2026 at the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) on Tuesday, 19 May 2026.

The event, held at Conference Room 4 of UNON, brought together diplomats, representatives of international organizations, members of the Buddhist community, and invited guests to mark the thrice-sacred day commemorating the Birth, Enlightenment, and Passing of Lord Buddha.

The programme commenced with the arrival of guests and participants, followed by opening remarks. The traditional oil lamp was ceremonially lit by Director General, UNON, Zainab Hawa Bangura, Chargé d’affaires of the Royal Thai Embassy in Nairobi, Piyaporn Putanapan, and Acting High Commissioner of the High Commission of Sri Lanka in Nairobi, Ruvini De Silva.

The Vesak Day Message of the Secretary-General of the United Nations was delivered by Director General, UNON. Remarks were also delivered by Piyaporn Putanapan and Ruvini De Silva, highlighting the universal values of compassion, peace, mindfulness, and coexistence embodied in the teachings of the Buddha.

The programme further included the traditional offering of flowers to the Buddha, followed by a sermon and guided meditation conducted by Venerable Yatirawana Wimala Thero.

The event was graced by the presence of the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, the High Commissioner of Bangladesh, the Deputy High Commissioner of India, the Deputy Permanent Representative of the European Union, the Deputy Permanent Representative of the State of Palestine, the Deputy Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, as well as other members of the diplomatic corps and representatives of international organizations based in Nairobi.

The observance concluded with refreshments and fellowship among participants, reflecting the spirit of unity and goodwill promoted by Vesak.   

The High Commission of Sri Lanka 

Nairobi

22 May 2026