The National Police Service (NPS) has celebrated one of its own, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Zipporah Nderitu, after she was named among the World Humanitarian Heroes on World Humanitarian Day 2025.
Currently serving as a Police Advisor at the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC), Nderitu’s journey embodies resilience, discipline, and transformational leadership within the service and beyond.
From Constable to Senior Superintendent
Nderitu began her career at Kileleshwa Police Station before taking up roles at Buruburu, Thika East, and at the Police Training Colleges.
Over the years, she has risen through the ranks from a Police Constable to a Senior Superintendent of Police, a climb marked by professionalism, integrity, and determination.
Her academic credentials are equally remarkable. She holds a bachelor’s degree in criminology and is set to graduate with a master’s in strategic leadership and security studies.
Additionally, she has acquired international training certifications from institutions in Ghana, Uganda, Italy, and beyond.
Championing Change Through POLICARE
One of her most notable achievements is the creation of POLICARE, an integrated, survivor-focused initiative that provides a multi-agency response to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
The centres offer survivors comprehensive support in medical, legal, psychosocial, and protective services, all under one roof.
This innovation has earned her recognition not only in Kenya but also across the globe, cementing her reputation as a humanitarian and a reformer in policing.
Global Recognition
Her dedication has earned her numerous accolades.
In 2016, she was appointed a Serving Sister of the Most Venerable Order of St John by command of the late Queen Elizabeth II.
She has also been commended by the Franklin Police Department (USA) and the U.S. Senate for her contributions to policing and training.
In 2023, she won the International Association of Women Police (IAWP) global award in New Zealand, presented by President William Ruto.
A year earlier, she had been nominated as Best Individual Police Officer at the Outstanding Police Service Awards (OPSA) by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority.
Her latest recognition as a World Humanitarian Hero underscores her influence in peacekeeping, humanitarian efforts, and security leadership on an international scale.
A Mentor and Role Model
Beyond her decorated career, Nderitu dedicates her time to mentoring young people, giving talks in schools and churches on security, and serving as Vice Chairperson of the Professional Criminologists Association of Kenya.
The NPS described her as a shining beacon of excellence, a mentor to many, and proof that resilience and determination can create lasting change.
“Congratulations, SSP Zipporah Nderitu, a true humanitarian, innovator, and role model for women and girls across Kenya and the world,” NPS said.
Ms. Zipporah Nderitu, SSP, Police Advisor at the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC). PHOTO/ NPS X