Kenya’s Monica Juma Sworn In as UN Agency Chief, Vows to Champion Global Peace, Justice and Security
Kenya has secured a major diplomatic milestone on the global stage after Dr. Monica Juma was officially sworn in by António Guterres as the new head of one of the United Nations’ most influential agencies, marking a significant achievement for both the country and the African continent.
Dr. Juma, Kenya’s former National Security Adviser, took the oath of office before the UN Secretary-General and pledged to execute her duties with integrity, impartiality and unwavering dedication to the principles and values of the United Nations.
Her appointment places a Kenyan at the helm of a critical UN institution tasked with leading the global fight against transnational organised crime, corruption, terrorism, cybercrime, illicit trafficking and drug-related threats while advancing justice and the rule of law across the world.
Speaking after her swearing-in ceremony, Dr. Juma described the appointment as both an honour and a profound responsibility, emphasizing that international public service is ultimately about improving the lives of people worldwide.
“In taking this oath, I am reminded that international civil service is, above all, a commitment to people. As I solemnly declared my dedication to carry out these functions with integrity, impartiality and the utmost regard for the purposes and principles of the United Nations, I reflected on the responsibility that comes with this trust,” she said.
The seasoned diplomat and security expert said she assumes the position with humility, gratitude and a deep sense of duty, pledging to work closely with governments, international partners and colleagues across the UN system to strengthen global peace and prosperity.
“I step into this role with humility, gratitude and a profound sense of duty. I look forward to working with colleagues and partners across the UN system and around the world to advance peace, security, justice and the rule of law for a more prosperous and dignified future for all,” she stated.
Her elevation to the prestigious position is being widely viewed as a powerful affirmation of Kenya’s growing diplomatic stature and Africa’s expanding influence within international governance structures.
Dr. Juma brings to the role decades of distinguished experience in governance, diplomacy, security affairs and public administration, having served at the highest levels of government and international policy institutions.
Most recently, she made history as Kenya’s first-ever National Security Adviser and Secretary to the National Security Council, a position she held between 2022 and 2026. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s national security architecture and advising on strategic policy matters.
Prior to that assignment, she served in several high-profile Cabinet positions, including Cabinet Secretary for Defence, Foreign Affairs and Energy. She also held the additional responsibility of Acting Cabinet Secretary for Petroleum and Mining between 2018 and 2022.
Her extensive government experience further includes service as Principal Secretary in the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Interior and Defence from 2013 to 2018, where she helped steer key policy reforms and international engagements.
On the diplomatic front, Dr. Juma represented Kenya as Ambassador to Ethiopia and Djibouti while simultaneously serving as Permanent Representative to the African Union, IGAD and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa between 2010 and 2013.
Beyond public service, she has built a formidable academic and research career, holding positions at leading institutions including the African Centre for Strategic Studies at the National Defence University in Washington, DC, the University of Pretoria and the Africa Institute of South Africa.
Her academic credentials are equally impressive. Dr. Juma holds a PhD from University of Oxford, where she also earned a Certificate in Refugee Studies. She additionally obtained both her Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Government and Public Administration from University of Nairobi.
As she assumes leadership at the United Nations Office at Vienna (UNOV) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), expectations are high that she will spearhead bold and transformative global initiatives aimed at tackling increasingly sophisticated criminal networks and emerging security threats.
Her appointment not only represents a personal triumph but also stands as a landmark moment for Kenya, underscoring the country’s growing reputation as a source of influential global leadership and reinforcing Africa’s voice in shaping international peace, justice and security agendas.
