H.E. Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao
Legendary Past Honoree – African Achievement Awards
Celebrating a Visionary Leader, Physician, Diplomat, and Global Advocate for Africa
The African Achievement Awards proudly recognizes Her Excellency Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao as a Legendary Past Honoree, celebrating her exceptional leadership, lifelong service, and unwavering commitment to advancing Africa and the global African diaspora.
An internationally respected medical doctor, diplomat, educator, entrepreneur, author, and Pan-African advocate, Dr. Chihombori-Quao has dedicated her life to improving healthcare, strengthening diplomatic relations, promoting economic development, and inspiring Africans around the world to embrace unity, self-determination, and sustainable development. Her distinguished career has made her one of the most influential African voices on the global stage.
Early Life and Education
Born in Zimbabwe, Dr. Chihombori-Quao spent her early years in the rural community of Chivhu before emigrating to the United States in 1977 to pursue higher education. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in General Chemistry from Fisk University, a Master’s degree in Organic Chemistry, and later a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) from the prestigious Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee. She completed her residency in Family Medicine and went on to build an outstanding medical career spanning nearly three decades.
A Distinguished Career in Medicine
Before entering diplomacy, Dr. Chihombori-Quao established herself as a highly respected family physician in Tennessee, where she practiced medicine for approximately 29 years.
As the founder and CEO of Bell Family Medical Centers, she provided compassionate, high-quality healthcare while advocating for greater access to medical services. Her work extended beyond clinical practice, reflecting a deep commitment to improving the health and well-being of underserved communities both in the United States and across Africa.
Leadership Within the African Union
Dr. Chihombori-Quao has played a significant leadership role in advancing Africa’s development through the African Union (AU).
Prior to her diplomatic appointment, she served as Chair of the African Union–African Diaspora Health Initiative (AU-ADHI), where she mobilized African healthcare professionals living abroad to help address critical healthcare challenges across the continent. She also served as International Chair of the African Union–Diaspora African Forum (AU-DAF Americas), promoting stronger partnerships between Africa and its global diaspora.
African Union Ambassador to the United States
In 2017, Dr. Chihombori-Quao was appointed as the Permanent Representative of the African Union Mission to the United States, becoming only the second person to hold this important diplomatic position.
During her tenure, she worked to strengthen relationships between the African Union, the United States government, African diplomatic missions, international organizations, and the African diaspora. Her work supported the African Union’s Agenda 2063, promoted economic cooperation, encouraged investment in Africa, and advocated for stronger collaboration in education, healthcare, trade, and innovation.
A Global Voice for Africa
Dr. Chihombori-Quao is internationally recognized for her passionate advocacy on African history, economic development, and Pan-African unity.
Through keynote speeches, international conferences, university lectures, and leadership forums, she has encouraged Africans worldwide to better understand the continent’s history, appreciate its vast natural and human resources, and work collectively toward a prosperous future.
Her presentations frequently explore topics such as:
- African economic development
- Pan-African cooperation
- Leadership and governance
- Healthcare and education
- Investment and entrepreneurship
- The role of the African diaspora
- Youth empowerment
- Africa’s place in the global economy
She has inspired audiences across Africa, North America, Europe, and the Caribbean through her commitment to education and informed dialogue.
Entrepreneur, Author, and Educator
In addition to her work in medicine and diplomacy, Dr. Chihombori-Quao is an accomplished entrepreneur and educator.
She has founded successful healthcare organizations, spoken at international leadership conferences, and authored works focused on Africa’s development and future. Her bestselling book, Africa 101: The Wake-Up Call, encourages readers to explore Africa’s history, opportunities, and global significance while promoting informed discussion about the continent’s future.
A Champion for the African Diaspora
Throughout her career, Dr. Chihombori-Quao has emphasized the importance of collaboration between Africa and its global diaspora.
She has consistently encouraged professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, educators, healthcare workers, and young leaders of African descent to contribute their knowledge, expertise, and resources toward Africa’s continued growth and development.
Her leadership has inspired thousands to engage in initiatives that strengthen economic opportunity, education, healthcare, innovation, and cultural exchange.
Honored by the African Achievement Awards
The African Achievement Awards proudly recognizes H.E. Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao as a Legendary Past Honoree for her extraordinary contributions to medicine, diplomacy, leadership, and global advocacy.
Her life’s work reflects the core values of the African Achievement Awards:
- Visionary Leadership
- Excellence
- Service
- Integrity
- Innovation
- Education
- Community Empowerment
- Pan-African Unity
- Global Collaboration
Her influence continues to inspire leaders across governments, businesses, nonprofit organizations, universities, and communities around the world.
A Lasting Legacy
Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao’s remarkable journey, from rural Zimbabwe to physician, entrepreneur, diplomat, and internationally respected advocate, demonstrates the transformative power of education, perseverance, and purpose-driven leadership.
Her dedication to improving lives, strengthening institutions, and promoting African excellence has earned her international respect and admiration.
The African Achievement Awards is honored to celebrate her extraordinary legacy and enduring contributions to Africa and the global African diaspora.
Her Excellency Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao exemplifies the spirit of visionary leadership, lifelong service, and unwavering commitment to empowering future generations.