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Dave Johnson named Representative of CWS JVA/Nairobi
February 21, 2008Nairobi, Kenya - Dave Johnson has been appointed to head the Church World Service Overseas Processing Entity ("Joint Voluntary Agency") in Nairobi, Kenya, which since 1990 has helped more than 136,000 refugees from 22 African countries resettle to the United States – nearly 14,000 just last year. He succeeds Ann Marie Winter, the Representative from August 2005-May 2007.
Johnson has been with the JVA for 11 years as Caseworker, Team Leader, Pre-CIS Supervisor, and, since September 2001, Deputy for Operations. He has been involved directly in the processing of all special African groups since then.
Through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. State Department, CWS administers both the JVA and Overseas Processing Entity/Ghana. Together, they are responsible for all case processing and cultural orientation in sub-Saharan Africa on behalf of the U.S. Refugee Program, which receives and places refugees through 10 U.S. voluntary agencies, including CWS.
"Dave has spent time with the CWS domestic resettlement affiliate network on several occasions and has gained a good understanding of the importance of the impact that the overseas processing of refugees has on domestic resettlement," said Joe Roberson, Director of the CWS Immigration and Refugee Program.
Johnson's appointment as Representative became effective December 17, just days before civil unrest erupted in Kenya over disputed presidential election results.
"While worried by recent events in the country," he said, "I aim to ensure that JVA staff can work safely, while continuing to serve refugees in need." He expressed particular appreciation for CWS efforts to assist Kenyan victims of the recent violence, including the estimated 250,000 displaced.
"Right now we have thousands of Nairobi city residents who are camping in a showground, having been chased from their homes," Johnson said. "We also have several internally displaced camps inthe country, and many more displaced persons are staying with relatives."
Johnson said he is proud that JVA staff members have donated generous quantities of food, clothing, and blankets for the relief effort.
Rev. John L. McCullough, Executive Director of Church World Service, said, "I am very pleased to hear of Dave's appointment in Nairobi. I think this is a well-deserved promotion, and feel confident that he will provide outstanding leadership for many years to come."
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