H.E. Mr. Lawrence Lenayapa, Ambassador of the Republic of Kenya welcome his colleague the Ambassador of Ireland, H.E. Mr. Kevin Kelly.
The Hague, on 7 December 2019, H.E. Mr. Lawrence Lenayapa, Ambassador of the Republic of Kenya in the Netherlands hosted a well attended, lunch time reception to celebrate Kenya’s 56 years of independence or “Jamhuri Day”. Jamhuri is the Swahili word for “Republic” and the holiday is meant to officially mark the date when Kenya became an autonomous republic on 12th December 1963.
The Jamhuri Day back home, sees parades, political speeches, dancing and feasts of roasted meat. The National Holiday also marks the start of the Christmas festivities in this widely Christian country.
Ambassador Lenayapa had invited government officials, members of the diplomatic community, members of the business community, and the Kenyan diaspora in the Netherlands providing an opportunity for Kenyans and friends of Kenya to interact while sharing Kenyans delicatessen.
After playing the National Anthems of Kenya and the Netherlands, Ambassador Lenayapa, welcomed his guests and delivered his remarks on the National Day.
“Jamhuri Day, as it affords the nation the opportunity to not only celebrate our independence, but also for Kenyans to look back and reflect on the journey of nationhood thus far.
Since independence and admission to the United Nations (UN) Kenya has been resolute and consistent particularly on matters of peace and security, sustainable development and global environmental and climate change issues.
Kenya believes strongly that sustainable development and human aspirations can only be achieved when there is peace and security for all. Similarly, peace and security will be at risk in any situations where development is not inclusive and sustainable.
Owing to the fragility of her locale as the eastern gateway into Africa”, said Ambassador Lenayapa, “Kenya has been relentless in the promotion and maintenance of peace, security and stability in Africa, and the world at large. Our anchor role in the pursuit of peace particularly in the horn of Africa, has led to a strong and evolving peace-making doctrine within and beyond our borders.”
On 21st August 2019, Kenya was endorsed as Africa Union’s candidate for the United Nations Security Council seat, whose selection will be conducted in June 2020. “The Republic of Kenya seeks the support and vote of each and every member of the United Nations family to enable Kenya serve as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the period of 2021-2022. “
Kenya’s promise is to bring its wealth of experience in preventive diplomacy, peace keeping, conflict resolution and post conflict reconstruction to the United Nations Security Council. Kenya remains focused in the pursuit of peace and security, particularly through multilateral fora.
“My presence in the Netherlands comes at an opportune time where we can join hands again with countries represented here this afternoon in ensuring that the objectives and the aspirations of Africa are secured – at the Security Council, through Kenya’s candidature. And I particularly want to thank the various governments represented here for your continued support in this regard.
Kenya and the Netherlands have shared warm and cordial relations dating back to 1964. This has continued to grow on the basis of mutual interests and shared values both at bilateral and multilateral fronts. Indeed, the Netherlands is one of Kenya’s biggest trading partners and we will continue to constructively engage and cooperate in areas beneficial to both countries.”
Ambassador Lenayapa thanked Sian Roses for the magnificent bouquets of Kenyan fresh cut roses offered to each guest and the caterer who has prepared the buffet style Kenyan cuisine to celebrate Jamhuri Day.
“I would also like to thank all members of staff at the Embassy, who continue to support me as the Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. I value the warmth, alliance and hard work displayed by everyone.
With these few remarks, I would like to convey my best wishes to you all during this festive season and a prosperous New Year!”
An exquisite Kenyan buffet concluded the festive reception.
