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Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Zainab Gbla from the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has been named the United Nations Woman Police Officer of the Year for 2025.
CSP Gbla, who is currently serving with the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), was recognized for her outstanding contributions to peacekeeping efforts.
Gbla has held various roles within the UN Police, including Chief Training Officer and Officer-in-Charge of the Capacity Building and Development Unit. She joined the UN mission in Abyei in April 2023 as a gender officer and quickly saw the need for more educational opportunities in the local community.
In response, she launched a school program for children in the area, working alongside community members, especially women, to provide learning materials and develop creative teaching methods. Gbla also set up a local football team, organizing matches between residents and peacekeepers to build trust and strengthen the relationship between the UN and the community.
Her initiatives have improved crime prevention efforts and created new ways for locals to report crimes. Gbla’s work has also brought attention to human rights issues and encouraged children and young people to take part in educational and awareness programs.
The United Nations Police Division has praised Gbla for her efforts, calling her a role model for law enforcement officers worldwide. The 14th United Nations Woman Police Officer of the Year Award will be formally presented to CSP Gbla on May 29, 2025, during the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers at the UN Headquarters in New York.
Congratulations to her for a terrific work done.
God richly continue to bless you and your family. Work well done. Keep smiling and your head high. Sierra Leone is very proud of you. We love you. God bless.