Staff Corner: Get to know John!

John Katunga, a Dispute Resolution Specialist based in Dakar, Senegal, joined CAO in September 2024. With a rich background in conflict transformation and peacebuilding across Africa, John has collaborated with prominent organizations such as Catholic Relief Services (CRS) and the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. His experience includes providing training in negotiation, mediation, and reconciliation. At CAO, he is currently working on one of the organization's most intricate dispute resolution cases related to the Sangeredi bauxite mine in Guinea (CBG-01).

Q: How long have you been a mediator, and what led you to CAO?

I’ve been involved in mediation for many years. My journey started as a human rights activist in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and over time, I became more deeply engaged in peacebuilding and conflict transformation. I’ve worked in various roles across Africa, including with Catholic Relief Services. Eventually, I joined CAO as a consultant in Guinea before transitioning into my current role.

Q: Tell us more about your work at CAO in the region.

Working with CAO in the region is both challenging and fascinating. Being based in Senegal gives me the opportunity to be closer to the cases I’m working on. I can engage directly with the parties involved, and because I understand some of the official languages and cultures, it’s easier to build trust and rapport. It makes the process of resolving disputes more effective when you can work with people on a daily basis.

Q: How do you think CAO’s work contributes to the mission of IFC/MIGA and the World Bank Group?

I believe CAO plays a critical role in ensuring investments have a long-lasting positive impact on local communities. By focusing on resolving conflicts and strengthening relationships between communities and companies, we help create an environment where development can thrive. It’s not just about addressing current issues but also about preventing future conflicts, ensuring that investments are sustainable, productive, and beneficial to the communities involved.

Q: Tell us a little bit about your interests outside of CAO and share with us your favorite quote.

Outside of my work at CAO, I enjoy reading, and watching movies. I recommend One Minute for Yourself by Spencer Johnson (2002) It’s a very small but powerful book, and the movie Invictus (2009), which aligns closely with my views on human relationships. Finally, I’d like to share with you this quote from Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s Night Flight (1931): “Make them work together, and you will create a bond of brotherhood. Even if the work is difficult, even if they have never met before, the shared effort will unite them in a way nothing else can”

Thank you for your work, John!