Monica Juma has expressed gratitude after she was appointed the Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna.

Taking to her official X account on Saturday, March 7, 2026, Juma thanked António Guterres for entrusting her with the leadership of the two global institutions at the undersecretary-General level.

She said the appointment reflects the Secretary-General’s confidence in her ability to steer the organisations during a period marked by complex global challenges, including transnational crime, drug trafficking, and corruption.

“I thank His Excellency Antonio Guterres, @antonioguterres, the United Nations Secretary General for appointing me as the next Executive Director of United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the Director General of UN office in Vienna @UN_Vienna,” Juma wrote on X.

She noted that the appointment, announced on the eve of International Women’s Day, demonstrates the United Nations’ commitment to promoting women’s leadership in global governance.

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

Monica Juma thanks Ruto

The diplomat also expressed appreciation to President William Ruto for supporting her career and allowing her to take up the international assignment after serving as his National Security Advisor.

Juma previously served as Kenya’s National Security Advisor and Secretary to the National Security Council, roles she described as instrumental in preparing her for global public service.

“I sincerely thank H.E. President William Ruto @WilliamsRuto for the confidence he bestowed upon me in serving him as his, and the first, National Security Advisor of the Republic of Kenya, as Secretary to the National Security Council, and for enabling me to take this global assignment, demonstrating yet again his belief in Kenya making its contribution to the community of nations,” she said.

The UNODC Executive Director-designate pledged to represent Kenya on the global stage and to discharge her mandate with professionalism and dedication.

She said she looks forward to serving humanity in her new role and ensuring that Kenya’s flag continues to be represented prominently in international diplomacy.

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

Her appointment places her in charge of UNODC’s global programs aimed at combating illicit drugs, organized crime, terrorism financing, and corruption, as well as overseeing operations at the UN Vienna headquarters.

The announcement has been widely welcomed by diplomatic circles and political leaders.

Ruto’s message

Ruto has congratulated Monica Juma following her appointment.

In a statement issued on Saturday, March 7, 2026, via his official social media accounts, Ruto praised Juma for her distinguished service to the country, noting that her appointment reflects the recognition of her professionalism and leadership beyond Kenya’s borders.

“I take this opportunity to congratulate Monica Juma on her appointment as the Executive Director of UNODC and Director-General of the UN Office in Vienna,” Ruto stated.

Ruto further highlighted Juma’s performance in various senior government roles, including her position as Kenya’s National Security Advisor and Secretary to the National Security Council.

According to the President, Juma’s dedication to public service has consistently set her apart and contributed to her rise on the international stage.