The United Nations' (UN) International Day of Peace is celebrated on September 21 each year to recognize the efforts of those who have worked hard to end conflict and promote peace. To mark the event, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, Uganda, organized a celebration in conjunction with Interdip – Uganda (Inter-religious and Intercultural Dialogue Programme). The theme was “Peace Making is a Right and a Collective Responsibility for All,” with various religious leaders and denominations being present at the event.
All religious representatives, several local communities and over 450 people started the Peace March with the brass band and local cultural performers from BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Kampala, through the streets.
A programme of “Peace Tree Plantation” was organized in the gardens of the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir. H.E Edward Ssekandi, Vice President of Uganda, graced the occasion. In his message, Edward Ssekandi highlighted Uganda’s contribution towards peace building in the region. He was given a mala as a memento, after which he said “I felt peace here in the Mandir and we really need to keep such environment surrounding us.”
In thus observing the International Day of Peace in Uganda, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha affirmed Bhagwan Swaminarayan and Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s vision of our world being at peace and in harmony.