Remarks of Mrs. Zainab Hawa Bangura, Under-Secretary-General and Director-General of United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) on the observance of the Day of Vesak
UNON Conference Room 4
9:00am, Tuesday 19 May 2026
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Ms Piyaporn Putanapan, Charge d'affaires, Royal Thai Embassy in Nairobi,
Ms Ruvini De Silva, Charge d'affaires, High Commission of the Democratic Social Republic of Sri Lanka in Nairobi,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good morning.
I would like to warmly welcome you to the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) for another commemoration ceremony of the Day of Vesak.
It is now my honour, as is customary, to read the message of the UN Secretary-General, Mr. António Guterres, which is dedicated to this day.
I quote:
“On the Day of Vesak, Buddhists around the world commemorate the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha.
This year, Vesak comes at a moment when the human family is embroiled in geopolitical tensions, division and conflict.
In 2023 I had the honour of visiting the Buddha’s birthplace in Lumbini, Nepal. It reinforced my conviction that the antidote to this turmoil can be found in his timeless teachings of non-violence, compassion and service to others.
Guided by the Buddha’s example, let us summon our shared humanity and build the more peaceful and sustainable world all people need and deserve.
Happy Vesak Day to all.”
End of quote.
Thank you.
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