Senior Superintendent of Police Zipporah Nderitu is a woman whose career in law enforcement has earned her accolades from Buckingham Palace to the US Senate.
She currently serves as the Police Advisor at the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC). Nderitu has emerged as one of Kenya’s most decorated and dynamic officers.
In 2016, she was appointed a Serving Sister of the Most Venerable Order of St John by command of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, a rare and prestigious recognition for exceptional service.
In 2023, she received the International Association of Women Police (IAWP) global award in New Zealand, presented by President William Ruto.
On World Humanitarian Day 2025, she was honored as one of the World Humanitarian Heroes, cementing her status as a global figure in peacekeeping and humanitarian leadership.
The Journey of Zipporah Nderitu
It all began at Kileleshwa Police Station, where she was a young constable who first donned her uniform with determination and a vision for change.
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Rising through the ranks with postings in Buruburu, Thika East, and Police Training Colleges, Nderitu became known for her discipline, innovation, and unyielding commitment to justice.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in criminology, is set to graduate with a Master’s in Strategic Leadership and Security Studies, and has received training from institutions across Ghana, Uganda, and Italy.
Her most transformative work came with the creation of POLICARE, a multi-agency, survivor-centered approach to tackling sexual and gender-based violence.
The initiative, now operational through several one-stop centres, offers medical, legal, psychosocial, and protective services under one roof, showing her visionary leadership.
“SSP Nderitu embodies what it means to serve with purpose,” said a statement from the National Police Service, which described her as a “beacon of excellence” and a “mentor to many.”
Awards and Recognition
Nderitu’s career has also earned recognition across the Atlantic, where she received commendations from both the Franklin Police Department in the United States and the US Senate for her contributions to policing and training.
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Back home, she was named Best Individual Police Officer at the 2014 Outstanding Police Service Awards, hosted by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority.
Outside her official duties, Nderitu is a passionate mentor, often speaking in schools and churches on youth and security issues.
“She is indeed a role model, not only to her colleagues in uniform but also to countless women and girls across Kenya.”
She also serves as Vice Chairperson of the Professional Criminologists Association of Kenya, using her platform to inspire future leaders.
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