NAIROBI, Kenya — Outgoing National Security Adviser Monica Juma has handed over the office to her deputy Joseph Boinnet in a transition ceremony held at the University of Nairobi, as she prepares to take up a senior United Nations role.
The handover comes just days after António Guterres announced Juma’s appointment as Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna, placing her at the helm of two critical global institutions dealing with crime prevention, justice systems, and international cooperation.
Speaking during the ceremony, Juma reflected on Kenya’s growing influence in global affairs, stressing the importance of multilateralism in addressing complex security and governance challenges.
“Kenya must remain actively engaged in multilateral systems to influence global decision-making and safeguard its national interests,” she said.
Her tenure as National Security Adviser has been defined by efforts to strengthen inter-agency coordination and position Kenya as a key regional security actor.
She has served in the role since 2022, acting as Secretary to the National Security Council under President William Ruto.
Juma brings more than two decades of experience in public service, having previously held senior Cabinet positions including Defence, Foreign Affairs, and Energy.
She has also served as Kenya’s ambassador to Ethiopia and Djibouti and Permanent Representative to the African Union and other regional bodies.
Her successor, Boinnet, takes over at a time when Kenya faces evolving security threats ranging from terrorism and cybercrime to transnational organised crime.
He is expected to deepen intelligence-led operations and strengthen coordination among security agencies.
The transition underscores continuity in Kenya’s national security and foreign policy, particularly its commitment to multilateral engagement and global cooperation.
At the United Nations, Juma will succeed Ghada Fathi Waly, with John Brandolino set to continue in an acting capacity until she formally assumes office.
Her appointment signals a significant milestone for Kenya on the global stage, positioning the country at the centre of international efforts to combat crime, strengthen justice systems, and promote sustainable development.
