By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
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Kenya, May 06, 2026 - President William Ruto on Tuesday paid tribute to Ambassador Monica Juma as she officially prepares to leave government service and take up a senior leadership role at the United Nations.
During a farewell meeting at State House, Nairobi, Ruto described Juma as one of Kenya’s most accomplished public servants, praising her role in shaping the country’s security, diplomacy and governance agenda over the years.
“We thank Ambassador Monica Juma, the outgoing National Security Advisor, for her years of dedicated public service to our nation,” Ruto said.
The President noted that Juma had built a reputation as a respected diplomat and skilled negotiator through her service in several senior government positions.
“Through her service, she distinguished herself as a highly respected professional and intellectual with extensive knowledge in security, diplomacy, and public administration. She was also result-oriented and a skilled negotiator,” he added.
Juma is set to take up two major positions at the United Nations after her appointment by UN Secretary-General António Guterres earlier this year.
She will serve as Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna.
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Ruto said her appointment reflects growing international recognition of Kenyan leadership on the global stage.
“I congratulate Ambassador Juma on her new roles… I am confident that she will excel in her new duties. Her experience, leadership, and commitment to service will make a significant contribution on the global stage,” he said.
Juma has played a central role in Kenya’s public service for years, serving in key positions including Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Defence before becoming National Security Advisor.
Her transition to the UN marks a major career milestone and places her at the centre of global efforts on crime prevention, drug control and international cooperation.
The farewell ceremony was also attended by Joseph Boinett, who has been deputising her in the national security office.
As she exits government, Juma leaves behind a long record in diplomacy and public administration, with State House expressing confidence that she will continue to represent Kenya internationally with distinction.