The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (Nacada) has congratulated Dr 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 Monday, Nacada said the appointment by António Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, is a proud moment for Kenya and the African continent.
The Authority said the recognition reflects Juma’s distinguished career in public service, diplomacy and international relations.
Nacada Chief Executive Officer Dr Anthony Omerikwa said the appointment comes at a critical moment when the global community is strengthening cooperation in the fight against illicit drugs and transnational organised crime.
“Dr Juma’s appointment comes at a critical time when the world must strengthen cooperation in addressing the global drug problem and transnational organised crime. Her vast experience in governance, security policy and diplomacy uniquely positions her to steer international efforts towards effective prevention, enforcement and rehabilitation interventions,” Omerikwa said.
Nacada noted that the appointment is particularly strategic as it coincides with the ongoing Commission on Narcotic Drugs forum in Vienna, where global leaders and policymakers are meeting to deliberate on responses to evolving challenges posed by illicit drugs and substance abuse.
The Authority said UNODC plays a central role in coordinating global responses to illicit drugs, organised crime and related threats that undermine the health, safety and development of communities worldwide.
It expressed confidence that under Juma’s leadership, the agency will continue championing evidence-based approaches to drug demand reduction while strengthening collaboration with member states.
The Authority also said it looks forward to continued collaboration with UNODC in advancing efforts to combat alcohol and drug abuse.
Juma was appointed to the dual UN role by Guterres on March 6.
She will succeed Egypt’s Ghada Fathi Waly and will also serve as Director-General of the UN Office at Vienna.
The Kenyan diplomat currently serves as National Security Adviser to President William Ruto and Secretary to Kenya’s National Security Council, a position she has held since 2022.
She previously held several senior positions in the Kenyan government, including Cabinet Secretary for Defence, Foreign Affairs and Energy, and earlier served as Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Her diplomatic career also includes serving as Kenya’s ambassador to Ethiopia and Djibouti and permanent representative to the African Union and other regional organisations.
The appointment places Juma at the helm of one of the United Nations’ key agencies responsible for coordinating international action against drug trafficking, organised crime and related security threats.
Her elevation has been widely viewed as a significant milestone for Kenya in global diplomacy and multilateral leadership.
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