Violet Nasambu-Lusala: Inclusion is not just a strategy, it's a responsibility
The (UNISFA) was established in 2011 to monitor the volatile border between Sudan and South Sudan. In a region the size of Jamaica, home to diverse communities like the Dinka Ngok and Misseriya, UNISFA's mandate is to protect civilians, deliver humanitarian aid, and provide security where no formal police structure exists.
In this interview, UNISFA’s former Police Commissioner, Violet Nasambu-Lusala from Kenya, who was one of the first senior-level women to serve in the , sheds light on the vital role of community engagement in her people-centered policing model.
Question: As you end your assignment with UNISFA, how would you describe your four-year experience with the mission?
Violet Nasambu-Lusala: It has truly been a humbling and transformative experience. Serving in Abyei, a region rich in culture, resilience, and complexity, has not only strengthened my professional journey but touched me personally.
Leading a dedicated multinational UN Police team in such a unique environment gave me the chance to engage with communities, work alongside local authorities, and contribute meaningfully to peace and security efforts. It’s an experience I will always carry with me.
Question: UNISFA operates in a complex political and security context. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced as Police Commissioner?
Violet Nasambu-Lusala: Navigating the evolving security dynamics in Abyei was a daily challenge. The absence of a formal police structure meant that much of our work required innovation and responsiveness. Language barriers, logistical hurdles, and limited infrastructure demanded constant adaptability. But I must say, these challenges also brought opportunities. Through strong collaboration with UNISFA military, civilian components, and community leaders, we were able to deliver on our mandate in practical and people-focused ways.
Question: How did you ensure that UNPOL’s work remained community-focused and responsive during your tenure?
Violet Nasambu-Lusala: Community engagement was at the heart of our policing model. We listened actively, involved community members in decision-making, and built solutions together. We also ensured gender sensitivity across our operations, through outreach, mentoring, and community dialogues. Inclusion is not just a strategy, it's a responsibility, and I believe we upheld that every step of the way.
Question: What message would you like to leave with the people of Abyei and your colleagues in UNISFA?
Violet Nasambu-Lusala: To the people of Abyei: thank you for your resilience, your trust, and your openness. You welcomed us into your homes, and I am deeply grateful.
To my colleagues, military, civilian, and police, continue working in the spirit of unity, professionalism, and compassion. Our mission is only as strong as our teamwork. I am proud of what we have built together.
Question: What message would you like to share with young and aspiring police officers - especially women, who wish to serve in UN peacekeeping missions leadership roles?
Violet Nasambu-Lusala: First, I would say: Believe in your worth and your purpose. The journey may not always be easy, but it is possible. I am living proof. Equip yourself with the right training, stay disciplined, and most importantly, maintain integrity and empathy in your service. Do not be afraid to lead.
Peacekeeping needs your unique perspective, your voice and your strength. Never limit yourself based on stereotypes or systems, rise, support one another, and show the world what women in uniform can do.
Question: As your UN assignment ends, what is next for you?
Violet Nasambu-Lusala: I will be returning home to Kenya to resume my duties under the Kenya National Police Service, where I am proud to continue serving. I will await redeployment, and wherever I go, I intend to carry forward the lessons, values, and experiences I’ve gained here. International peacekeeping has given me a broader perspective, and I hope to apply that lens in strengthening policing at home.
The original interview was posted .