Ambassador Dennis Awori has been named the new Chancellor of the United States International University – Africa (USIU-Africa). He will officially take up the role on April 10, 2025, for a five-year term.
In a statement on Monday, USIU-Africa’s Board of Trustees Chair, Professor Eileen B. Wilson-Oyelaran, described Awori’s appointment as a significant moment in the university’s journey.
“We are honored to have Ambassador Dennis Awori take on this esteemed role as he helps to guide the university in expanding its impact in higher education in Kenya, on the African continent, and beyond,” she said.
Awori is a well-respected diplomat, business leader, and advocate for education and development in Africa. His career spans over 40 years across sectors such as mobility, healthcare, renewable energy, agriculture, and education. He has worked extensively across East Africa and the entire continent.
He currently serves as Chairman and Country Delegate of CFAO Mobility Kenya and CFAO Kenya Limited, and as Executive Director of CFAO SAS (Paris), which are subsidiaries of Toyota Tsusho Corporation. CFAO operates across all 54 African countries.
Awori previously served as Kenya’s Ambassador to Japan between 2004 and 2009. During this time, he played a key role in opening the Kenyan Embassy in South Korea and strengthening diplomatic ties with both Japan and Korea.
He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the University of Manchester and has completed management courses at Ashridge University (UK) and Emory Business College (USA).
Awori has been deeply involved in advancing technical and vocational education in Kenya. He chaired the governing council of the Kenya Technical Trainers College (KTTC), guiding its transformation into the Kenya School of Technical, Industrial, Vocational, and Entrepreneurship Training (TIVET). He also helped establish the Toyota Kenya Foundation, the Toyota Kenya Academy, and the David Wambuli Technical Training College.
Beyond his professional work, Awori is also known for his service to the community. He has served as President of the Rotary Club of Nairobi East, President of the Nairobi Club, and Chairman of the Kenya and Uganda Rugby Unions.
As he steps into this new role, USIU-Africa has also paid tribute to its outgoing Chancellor, Dr. Manu Chandaria, for over 20 years of dedicated service to the university.
“Dr. Chandaria’s leadership, support and commitment to USIU-Africa set a standard worthy of emulation,” said Professor Wilson-Oyelaran.
“He was instrumental in endowing the Chandaria School of Business, among other notable achievements. The university is deeply grateful and looks forward to honoring his contributions.”
