I look forward to flying Kenya’s flag high, says Monica Juma after UN appointment

Monica Juma/COURTESY

National security advisor Monica Juma has expressed gratitude to António Guterres and President William Ruto following her appointment to lead two major United Nations offices.

Juma thanked the UN Secretary-General for appointing her as the next Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna.

“I thank His Excellency António Guterres, the United Nations Secretary-General, for appointing me as the next Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the Director-General of the UN Office in Vienna,” Juma said in a statement.

She said the appointment reflects the confidence placed in her ability to lead the two offices at a critical time.

“I appreciate the Secretary-General’s confidence in my ability to steer these two important offices at the Under-Secretary-General level, at this critical point,” she said.

Juma also noted that the appointment comes on the eve of International Women's Day, describing it as a demonstration of the UN chief’s belief in women’s leadership.

“Coming on the eve of International Women’s Day, this appointment is demonstrative of the UNSG’s belief in women leadership,” she said.

Juma also thanked President Ruto for entrusting her with key responsibilities in government and supporting her transition to the global role.

“I sincerely thank President William Ruto for the confidence he bestowed upon me in serving him as his, and the first, National Security Advisor of the Republic of Kenya and as Secretary to the National Security Council,” she said.

Juma added that the President’s support in allowing her to take up the international assignment reflected Kenya’s commitment to contributing to global governance.

“He has enabled me to take this global assignment, demonstrating yet again his belief in Kenya making its contribution to the community of nations,” she said.

She pledged to serve diligently in the new role while representing the country on the global stage.

“I look forward to serving at this new mandate diligently and flying Kenya’s flag high, to the best of my ability,” she said.

Juma also thanked Kenyans for the support and experience that shaped her career in public service.

“Thank you, Kenya, for preparing me to serve humanity,” she said.

Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'Oei has congratulated her on the appointment.

"Congratulations Dr. Monica Juma, on this high appointment to steward a key Agency of the United Nations and serve as Director General of the UN Office at Vienna. Kenya looks forward to working with and supporting you as you serve the international community at such a pivotal juncture," he said.