Kenyan diplomat Monica Juma has formally taken her 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 took the oath before United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Thursday, June 11, 2026, officially assuming one of the most senior leadership positions held by a Kenyan within the UN system.

The ceremony marked a major milestone in her diplomatic career and placed her at the helm of two key United Nations institutions responsible for advancing international cooperation on crime prevention, justice and security.

Commitment to people and public service

Following the ceremony, Juma said the oath underscored the responsibility that comes with international public service.

“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 added: “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.”

Juma said she was assuming the position with humility and a strong sense of duty.

“I step into this role with humility, gratitude and a profound sense of duty, and look forward to working with colleagues and partners across the UN system, and the world to advance peace, security, justice and the rule of law, for a more prosperous and dignified future for all.”

Distinguished public service career

Juma brings decades of experience in diplomacy, security, governance and public administration.

Before joining the United Nations, she served as Kenya’s National Security Adviser and Secretary to the National Security Council. She also held several Cabinet positions, including Defence, Foreign Affairs and Energy.

Her diplomatic assignments included serving as Kenya’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and Djibouti as well as Permanent Representative to the African Union.

The appointment was announced by Secretary-General Guterres earlier this year, with Juma assuming office in May.

Key role at UNOV and UNODC

The United Nations Office at Vienna serves as one of the organisation’s major headquarters, while UNODC leads global efforts against drug trafficking, organised crime, corruption and terrorism.

Juma takes office at a time when countries are increasingly facing transnational security threats that require coordinated international responses.

Her new responsibilities include supporting member states in strengthening criminal justice systems, promoting the rule of law and enhancing international cooperation against emerging security challenges.