Every year on International Women’s Day, we celebrate women who redefine what leadership, courage and service look like. Among them stands Dr. Eunice A.J. Dobby—a police officer, pilot, scholar, mother, diplomat and mentor whose journey continues to inspire a new generation of leaders.
Dr. Dobby’s story embodies the spirit of Kaizen, the philosophy of continuous improvement. It is a journey shaped by determination, discipline and an unwavering commitment to service.
Rising through the ranks of the National Police Service from Police Constable in 1999 to Commissioner of Police, she broke barriers to become Kenya’s first fully rated female police pilot, commanding aircraft in operations that demanded precision, courage and sound judgment.
Trained at the Oxford School of Aviation in the United States and certified by both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, she served in the National Police Airwing, eventually becoming Chief Pilot and later Deputy Commandant. In this role, she led critical missions including search and rescue operations, casualty evacuations, aerial reconnaissance, counterterrorism support and aerial monitoring during national emergencies.
From the skies above Kenya’s highways to operations supporting security agencies on the ground, her work symbolised hope and rapid response in moments when lives depended on swift action.
Yet Dr. Dobby’s journey has never been limited to operational excellence alone. While serving in uniform, she pursued academic excellence with equal dedication. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Human Resources, an MBA in Strategic Management and a Master’s Degree in International Relations and Diplomacy. She is also a graduate of the prestigious National Defence College (Kenya).
Her academic journey recently culminated in a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social Transformation, Security and Sustainable Peace, where her research explored the role of technology in modernising airborne policing in Kenya—proving that meaningful impact is built over time through dedication and the constant pursuit of becoming better than yesterday.
Her work proposes innovative security approaches such as the integration of CCTV surveillance along major highways, drone-supported aerial monitoring and helicopter patrols during peak travel seasons and major public gatherings. These systems, equipped with high-definition cameras, facial recognition and geofencing technologies, could significantly enhance early response to crime, improve traffic safety and support modern policing strategies.
Through this research, Dr. Dobby demonstrates how practical experience in policing can inform policy solutions that strengthen national security and save lives.
Today, her service extends beyond Kenya’s borders. She serves as a pioneer lady Director of Administration and Finance and Gender Focal Point at the Regional Centre on Small Arms and Light Weapons (RECSA), where she contributes to regional efforts aimed at controlling the proliferation of small arms and promoting peace and security across Africa and globally.
At the same time, she continues to inspire the next generation through teaching. As a lecturer in Diplomacy of Arms Control, Terrorism and Counterterrorism Strategies, she shares her knowledge and experience with students pursuing careers in security, diplomacy and international relations.
Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Dobby embodies the values of family, resilience and mentorship. She is a mother of five, including twins, balancing the demands of national service with the responsibilities of nurturing and guiding the next generation at home.
Her influence extends into communities as well. Through mentorship initiatives and support to small traders and artisans, she empowers individuals to build livelihoods and strengthen community resilience.
Dr. Dobby has been recognised nationally for her outstanding service, receiving several presidential honours including the Trail Blazers Award, the Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW) and the Head of State Commendation (HSC). Her leadership and achievements have also been highlighted in national media, including recognition among Kenya’s “Top 40 Under 40 Women.”
Yet despite these accolades, she remains grounded in a simple belief: leadership is about service, discipline and lifting others as you rise.
On this International Women’s Day, the National Police Service celebrates Dr. Eunice Dobby as a symbol of dedication, courage and possibility. Her journey reminds us that with determination, education and service, barriers can be broken and new paths opened for future generations.
Her story is not only about flying planes or shaping security policy. It is about proving that when women lead with purpose, entire communities—and nations—rise with them.
By Anthony Solly
