Nelson Mandela International Day commemorated at UN Office in Nairobi
More than 350 pupils gathered with diplomats, government officials and business leaders on 18 July 2018 at the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) to celebrate the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of his birth.
The learners from various primary schools signed and delivered a declaration that expressed the futures that they envisioned for themselves in which they would experience safety, food security, education, peace and prosperity.
The UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Siddharth Chatterjee delivered the Secretary-General message which was also screened. Ms. Thoko Didiza , Representative from the Government of South Africa also gave her remarks. Other notable dignitaries who also gave their remarks are Ambassador Dr. Monic Juma, Kenya Cabinet Secretary of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mr. Jean-Pierre Ossey Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Republic of Congo, H.E. Mr. Marek Rohr-Garztecki, Ambassador of Poland, H.E. Mrs. Marta Eugenia Juarez Ruiz, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Costa Rica and H.E. Mr. Victor Conrad Ronneberg, Chair of the Western European and other States Group, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Norway.
To mark 100 years since the birth of Nelson Mandela, a cake was cut. Different South African companies in Kenya exhibited their works at the main Lobby. As a gesture to commemorate the day and support for the girls’ education, Nissan company donated a car to Samburu Girls Centre Foundation- A rescue centre for girls based in Samburu County.
The colourful and successful event was jointly coordinated and organized by the United Nations Information Centre Nairobi and the South Africa High Commission in Kenya.
