The Voice They Tried to Silence: Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao
In the halls of diplomacy and power, few voices have stirred the global African community quite like that of Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao. As the African Union Ambassador to the United States from 2016 to 2019, she did more than fill a political role—she became a symbol of Pan-African unity and unapologetic truth. Born in Zimbabwe and trained as a medical doctor, Dr. Chihombori-Quao brought fire to the podiums she graced, consistently calling out the vestiges of colonialism still gripping Africa. Her tenure was marked by fervent Pan-African advocacy, particularly emphasizing the mobilization of the African diaspora and critiquing neo-colonial influences on the continent.(Wikipedia)
She was notably outspoken about the lingering effects of colonialism, especially criticizing France’s continued economic influence over its former African colonies. Her speeches often highlighted the so-called “colonial tax” and the need for Africa to assert its sovereignty.(Al Jazeera, New York Amsterdam News).
Dismissal and Controversy. In October, 2019, her ambassadorship was abruptly terminated by the African Union. The official explanation cited personnel realignments and internal concerns about unauthorized fundraising and office mismanagement. But to many across the diaspora, this sounded like a smokescreen. Her removal sparked widespread support from the African diaspora and Pan-African communities, including Ghana’s former President Jerry John Rawlings, criticized the AU’s decision, suggesting it compromised the organization’s independence.
Advocacy and the African Diaspora: Following her dismissal, Dr. Chihombori-Quao has been a vocal proponent of uniting the African diaspora to contribute to Africa’s development. Her initiatives aim, to bridge the gap between Africa and its global diaspora, fostering collaboration for mutual growth. She remained active in Pan-African advocacy, continues to speak on issues concerning Africa’s development, while empowering Africans globally to take an active role in shaping the continent’s future.
As the Former AU Ambassador to the US, Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao: Her speeches and engagements has become a living call to action: for Africa to reclaim its narrative, resources, and rightful place in the world order.
✊🏾 Call to Action: The Traore Winds-Blows With Dignified Intensity Through Africa
🎥 Watch her speeches on YouTube. 📢 Use your voice—because when we speak as one, we cannot be silenced.
#PanAfricanism #ArikanaChihomboriQuao #AfricaRising #DiasporaUnited #AUPolitics #BlackEmpowerment #ColonialTruth #ReclaimAfrica
