The Board of Trustees has appointed Ambassador Dennis Awori as the new Chancellor, for a term of five years effective April 10,2025. He takes over from Dr. Manu Chandaria who has served the University for over two decades in the capacity of Chancellor, Board Chair, and Trustee. The Board announced his appointment to the university community on May 14 citing it as a significant milestone in the realization of USIU-Africa’s vision of being the premier institution of academic excellence with global perspective.

As a seasoned diplomat, an accomplished business executive, and with a career spanning over four decades, Ambassador Dennis Awori brings on board a wealth of leadership experience, strong track record of innovation, and sustainable growth, qualities USIU-Africa hopes to leverage as it continues to expand its impact in higher education in Kenya, on the African continent, and beyond.

Ambassador Awori’s deep engagement with educational advancement and his commitment to empowering Africa’s youth through quality education and skills development align with the university tagline, education to take you places. He has played key roles in institutions that are significantly advancing technical education and vocational training across Kenya. As chair of the Governing Council of the Kenya Technical Trainers College (KTTC), he guided its transition into the Kenya School of Technical, Industrial, Vocational, and Entrepreneurship Training (TIVET). He was also instrumental in the establishment of the Toyota Kenya Foundation, the Toyota Kenya Academy, and the David Wambuli Technical Training College.

As the current Chairman and Country Delegate of CFAO Mobility Kenya Limited and Executive Director of CFAO SAS (Paris), Ambassador Awori’s work spread across mobility, healthcare, consumer goods, agriculture, renewable energy, and infrastructure in all 54 African countries. This mirrors USIU-Africa’s ambition to produce graduates who can not only competitively integrate into the global job market but can address existing gaps in societies worldwide. Additionally, he is a highly respected diplomat, having served as Kenyan Ambassador to Japan 2004-2009. During his ambassadorial tenure, he spearheaded the establishment of the Kenyan Embassy in Korea, building strong relationships between Kenya and both Korea and Japan.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Ambassador Awori has been deeply involved in community impact and corporate social responsibility initiatives. He has held significant positions in civic organizations ranging from President of the Rotary Club of Nairobi East, President of the Nairobi Club, and Chairman of both the Kenya and Uganda Rugby Unions. His dedication to Corporate Social Responsibility aligns perfectly with university’s mission.