President William Ruto has congratulated Monica Juma following her appointment as Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna.

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.

“Her stellar performance in the appointments bestowed upon her, with the most recent one being as my National Security Advisor and Secretary to the National Security Council, have been recognised beyond our borders,” he said.

Service to the nation

He also described Juma as a patriotic leader who has served the country with professionalism and diligence across multiple assignments.

“Dr Juma has served our country with utmost professionalism and patriotism, giving the best to all assignments tasked to her, which in return has earned her a place on the international stage,” he added.

The Head of State also expressed appreciation to António Guterres for the appointment, noting that it underscores global confidence in Kenyan leadership.

“I thank the Secretary-General of the United Nations António Guterres for appointing not just a Kenyan but a woman leader, and for doing this especially in this month when we celebrate women’s achievements,” Ruto said.

Monica Juma’s UN appointment

The appointment comes during the period when countries around the world mark International Women’s Day.

Ruto further reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to working closely with the United Nations and supporting multilateral cooperation on global challenges.

“Kenya is committed to multilateralism, and we look forward to our continued collaboration with the United Nations,” he said.

The announcement on the appointment of Juma was made on March 6, placing the Kenyan diplomat and security expert in charge of two key United Nations offices.

Juma will succeed Ghada Fathi Waly of Egypt, whose service the Secretary-General acknowledged.

The UN chief also thanked John Brandolino, who will continue serving as Acting Executive Director of UNODC and Acting Director-General of UNOV until Juma assumes office.