Christopher Keith Johnson
About Christopher Keith Johnson
Christopher Keith Johnson serves as the Regional Program Director for Africa at the Solidarity Center, having previously held various positions within the organization since 2006. He has a strong academic background in African-American studies and international development, complemented by extensive experience in trade union organizing and program implementation.
Work at Solidarity Center
Christopher Keith Johnson has held multiple positions at the Solidarity Center, contributing significantly to various regional programs. He currently serves as the Regional Program Director for Africa, a role he has occupied since 2020 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Prior to this, he was the Country Program Director for Southern Africa from 2019 to 2020 and for West Africa from 2012 to 2017, both based in Johannesburg and Abuja, Nigeria, respectively. He also worked as the Country Program Director for Bangladesh from 2018 to 2019 and as DCPD Bangladesh from 2017 to 2018. His earlier role at Solidarity Center included serving as Program Officer for the Africa Region from 2006 to 2007 in Washington D.C.
Education and Expertise
Christopher Keith Johnson has an extensive educational background. He earned a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in African-American/Black Studies from Temple University. He also holds a Master of Science (MSc) in International Development (Conflict, Security and Development) from the University of Birmingham, and a Master of Arts (M.A.) in African & African-American Studies from SUNY Albany. Additionally, he has a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Political Science and Government from Elizabeth City State University. He furthered his studies with a Certificate in Terrorism Studies from the University of St Andrews.
Background
Christopher Keith Johnson has a diverse professional background that includes significant experience in union organizing and academia. He worked as a Union Organizer for the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) from 2001 to 2002 and for the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) from 2002 to 2003. He also served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at Temple University from 2003 to 2006. His work has involved co-designing and implementing programs focused on gender equity, anti-human trafficking, HIV/AIDS awareness and education, and conflict resolution.
Publications and Written Work
Christopher Keith Johnson has contributed to various publications, showcasing his expertise in international development and social issues. His written work has appeared in notable journals and platforms, including the Small Wars Journal, E-International Relations, International Policy Digest, Sahara Reporters, Face2Face Africa, the Journal of Black Studies, and the Journal of Pan African Studies. These publications reflect his engagement with critical topics related to conflict, security, and development.