01 November 2023 , 13:36
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The King was hailed as ‘ahead of his time’ as he gave an environmental speech at the United Nations Office Nairobi.
In his impassioned address he said “action is needed desperately” and told delegates “we go far when we go together”. And was given a round of applause by delegates after delivering sections of the speech in Swahili. Outside as he arrived, the King planted a Muthiga tree - an endangered East African Green Heart - which is grown for medicinal purposes. The king wished it good luck and said “you’ll have to let me know how high he grows.” Crowds of staff - some had brought in their children and partners - cheered and took photos of the King as he walked through the building. Inside the Plenary he delivered a speech to delegates.
King Charles reportedly met the world's oldest man called Samweli M'thigai Mburia (Tim Rooke/REX/Shutterstock)Welcoming the King to the microphone, UN Director General told the delegation: “We are all deeply honoured that His Majesty has chosen Kenya for a for his first state visit to both Africa and to a member of the Commonwealth.” Following a rousing welcome from UN staff, the King said: “I could not get over how many staff were waiting outside and I fear it may have cause total disruption particularly if I ruined their lunch break. As you might know, I have long cared deeply about this increasingly urgent mission and I am moved by your very warm welcome.”
Camilla visited the Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemetery (PA)He said he had seen first-hand “the devastating effects of climate change and biodiversity loss” and added: “It is particularly heartbreaking to know that in the whole of Africa alone, tens of millions of people face severe hunger and drought.. left unchecked global warming, biodiversity loss and climate change are challenges, serious challenges which threaten us all and can only be met by the whole society working together in the spirit of action, partnership and commitment.” After the King received a round of applause, Zainab Hawa Bangura, Director-General of United Nations Office Nairobi, said afterwards: “It is like an inspiration. We feel grateful what he was saying 50 years ago and now we are trying to catch up.
King Charles demonstrated his love for nature on the second day of his visit (Ian Vogler / Daily Mirror)"It’s a great honour. Staff brought their wives and children. He said things that need to be done. He was way ahead of his time. If we had listened to him before we would not have found ourselves in state where we are rushing to catch up.” The King then met delegates in la side room for a briefing on his Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI). The SMI roundtable at UNON is bringing together UK and other international SMI CEOS with Kenyan CEOs to focus on concrete commitments to climate action. The SMI is set to announce the creation of an SMI Africa Council to drive focus and action.
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