The Sri Lankan High Commission in Kenya celebrated Sri Lanka’s 76th independence anniversary with a prestigious morning function yesterday at the Kempinski Villa Rosa Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya. The gala was graced by the esteemed presence of the Cabinet Ministers , TRI forces Chief of Kenya , underlining the significance of the event.
The event welcomed around 350 distinguished guests and the chief guest was the
Deputy Governor of the Nairobi CityHis Excellency Njoroge Muchiri, who graced the occasion as the chief guest representing the Government of Kenya. Also in attendance were Ambassadors and diplomatic representatives, UN officials, business leaders, and members of the Sri Lankan community residing in Kenya.
The guests were received with the traditional Sri Lankan gesture of offering beetle leaves and Independence Day commemorative shawls, followed by the hoisting of the national flag by High Commissioner Kana V. Kananathan, accompanied by the Sri Lankan national anthem played by the Kenyan Police Band.
The program continued with solemn religious observances representing the Buddhist, Hindu, Christian, and Muslim faiths, invoking blessings upon Sri Lanka. Most Venerable GawaragiriyePremarathana Thero, of the Royal College in Colombo, also attached to Abhayarama Temple from Sri Lankawas specially invited by the High Commissioner, conducted Buddhist religious observances, adding a sacred dimension to the event.
High Commissioner Kananathan addressed the audience, emphasizing the significance of Sri Lanka’s 76th Independence Day and highlighting the country’s ongoing journey of economic recovery and development under the visionary leadership of President Ranil Wickremesinghe. He expressed confidence in the deepening bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and Kenya, which foster mutual growth and development.
One of the activities that stood out was the lighting of the oil lamp. As opposed to the usual practice of adults and VIP’s , this year, Sri Lankan children aged 5-16 years old of the different ethnicities of Sri Lanka were gathered to light the lamp. Guests in attendance commended the High Commissioner for this innovative idea.
The Deputy Governor of the Nairobi City Njoroge Muchiri who represented the Government, commended Ambassador Kananathan’s efforts in strengthening diplomatic ties and facilitating Sri Lankan investments in Kenya and the broader African region, which have significantly enhanced trade and investments between the countries.
The celebration featured captivating cultural performances showcasing Sri Lanka’s rich heritage and traditions, adding vibrancy and festivity to the event. Guests were then treated to a brunch featuring Sri Lankan cuisine, offering a tantalizing taste of the island nation’s diverse culinary delights.
