Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet secretary Rebecca Miano has hailed veteran diplomat Monica Juma as a “trailblazer” and transformative leader, in a heartfelt farewell speech celebrating her distinguished career and rising global influence.
Speaking during a farewell dinner at Safari Park Hotel on Friday, Miano delivered a moving tribute that centred on Dr. Juma’s exceptional leadership, describing her as a figure who consistently redefined standards and inspired those around her.
“We speak often of trailblazers, but Dr. Monica Juma goes beyond merely pace-setting. She maps territories, surveys the terrain, and leaves behind a well-illuminated path for those who succeed her to excel,” she said.
Drawing from her own experience working under her when she served as Managing Director KenGen and Juma was Cabinet Secretary for Energy, Miano highlighted the discipline, precision and quiet authority that defined Juma’s leadership style.
“To Dr. Juma, to lead needs raised standards, not a raised voice,” she noted, underscoring what she described as a hallmark of her approach to governance.
Miano recalled how Dr. Juma handled high-pressure situations with remarkable composure, often turning moments of uncertainty into decisive action.
“She would walk into a meeting with a crisis on her shoulders and leave many of us relieved that the crisis had met its match,” she said.
Beyond her effectiveness in crisis management, Miano emphasised Dr. Juma’s enduring legacy as a mentor and role model.
While acknowledging that her high standards could be intimidating, she noted that they ultimately shaped and strengthened those who worked with her.
“In retrospect, I stand here confident and stoic because I learnt from the finest,” Miano said.
A key highlight of the tribute was Dr. Juma’s appointment to a role at the United Nations in Vienna—an achievement Miano framed as global recognition of her expertise and leadership.
“Global institutions have looked at the world’s most stubborn problems and decided that what the situation requires is an individual of Dr. Juma’s credentials, thought leadership and mettle,” she said.
Miano expressed confidence that Dr. Juma would continue to excel on the international stage while carrying Kenya’s reputation with distinction.
“Go, and let Vienna marvel at your intellect and your tried and tested steadiness.Allow the world to wonder how Kenya produced someone designed for tasks that demand extraordinary courage, rare tact and a fine sense of diplomacy,” she said.
