Former Defence Cabinet Secretary Monica Juma has been appointed as the Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna (UNOV).
The appointment was announced on Friday by António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, marking a significant milestone in Kenya’s representation within senior international leadership roles.
Transition in Leadership
Juma succeeds Ghada Fathi Waly of Egypt, who previously led the UN agency. Secretary-General Guterres expressed appreciation for Waly’s service and contributions to advancing the organisation’s global mission.
The leadership transition places Ambassador Juma at the forefront of international efforts to combat transnational crime, drug trafficking, corruption, and organized criminal networks.
Extensive Diplomatic and Security Experience
Ambassador Juma currently serves as National Security Advisor to William Ruto, President of Kenya. She has built an extensive career in public service, diplomacy, and international policy.
Prior to her current advisory role, she served as Cabinet Secretary for Defence and earlier as Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs. Throughout her career, she has been widely recognised for her expertise in national security strategy, international diplomacy, and governance reforms.
Her leadership roles have also included senior positions in Kenya’s foreign policy and international cooperation frameworks, where she played a key role in strengthening diplomatic relations and advancing Kenya’s interests on the global stage.
Responsibilities at the United Nations
As Executive Director of UNODC, Juma will lead the organisation’s global initiatives aimed at addressing drug trafficking, organised crime, corruption, terrorism, and criminal justice reform.
In her concurrent role as Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna, she will also oversee the administrative and operational activities of the UN’s Vienna headquarters, which hosts several international organisations and UN agencies.
Her appointment positions her as one of the most senior African leaders within the United Nations system, reflecting growing recognition of African expertise in global governance and security affairs.
Strengthening Global Cooperation on Crime and Security
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime plays a central role in supporting member states in combating illicit drug trade, human trafficking, cybercrime, and other forms of transnational crime.
Juma’s appointment is expected to strengthen international cooperation in addressing these global challenges while advancing multilateral strategies for crime prevention, justice reform, and sustainable development.
