Dr Monica Kathina Juma, one of Kenya’s most accomplished diplomats and a proud daughter of Kitui County, has officially taken the oath of office as Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna (UNOV) and Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
Juma was sworn in before United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, formally assuming leadership of one of the world’s most influential agencies tasked with combating transnational crime, corruption, terrorism, cybercrime, human trafficking and illicit drug networks.
Her appointment marks a historic achievement not only for Kenya but also for Kitui County and the wider Ukambani region, placing a Kenyan at the centre of global efforts to promote justice, security and the rule of law.
Speaking after the swearing-in ceremony, Juma described the moment as both an honour and a profound responsibility.
“Today, I had the honour of taking my oath of office before Secretary-General António Guterres as Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna and Executive Director of UNODC,” she said.
“In taking this oath, I am reminded that international civil service is, above all, a commitment to people.”
She pledged to uphold the values of integrity, impartiality and professionalism while advancing the United Nations’ mission of fostering peace, security and sustainable development across the globe.
Juma brings decades of experience in diplomacy, governance and national security to her new role. Before joining the United Nations, she served as Kenya’s National Security Adviser and Secretary to the National Security Council. She also held several senior Cabinet positions, including Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Defence and Energy.
Throughout her distinguished career, Juma has played a key role in shaping Kenya’s foreign policy and strengthening the country’s standing on the international stage. She previously served as Kenya’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the African Union, IGAD and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres announced her appointment earlier this year, citing her extensive experience in leadership, public policy, diplomacy and international relations.
As Executive Director of UNODC, Juma will lead global initiatives aimed at tackling organised crime, corruption, terrorism, drug trafficking and emerging security threats. She will also oversee programmes designed to strengthen criminal justice systems and enhance international cooperation in law enforcement.
Her elevation to the rank of United Nations Under-Secretary-General is being celebrated as a major milestone for Kenya’s diplomatic community and an inspiration to young Africans aspiring to leadership on the global stage.
For many residents of Kitui County, Juma’s latest achievement stands as a powerful testament that local roots can lead to global impact.
