Eva Chanya is a uniquely positioned professional who bridges the critical gap between high-level agricultural policy and on-the-ground implementation. With over 15 years of dedicated service to the CAADP framework—from the Malabo Declaration through to the recent Kampala Declaration—she combines the pragmatic perspective of a small-scale farmer from Kajiado, Kenya, with the strategic expertise of a seasoned project and events coordinator for continental agricultural development.

As an operations expert with the African Union Commission’s Department of Rural Economy and Agriculture (2013-2021), Eva was instrumental in the operationalization of CAADP. Her hands-on leadership was pivotal in:

· Coordinating the CAADP Biennial Review Process: She managed the complex logistics, training, and stakeholder coordination for the Biennial Review trainings across all 55 AU Member States and Regional Economic Communities, a cornerstone of the Malabo Declaration’s mutual accountability framework.
· Facilitating High-Level Dialogue: Eva expertly managed ministerial conferences, heads of state summits, and donor coordination meetings, ensuring seamless collaboration between governments, development partners, and implementing agencies.
· Strengthening Multi-Stakeholder Engagement: Her role involved continuous liaison with CAADP stakeholders at all levels, from farmers’ groups to international partners, fostering the inclusive partnerships essential for CAADP’s success.

Eva’s unparalleled value lies in her dual identity. As an avid small-scale farmer, she brings the lived reality of African agriculture to the policy table. This grassroots experience, combined with her policy work, makes her an authentic and powerful voice for practical impact.

Her commitment to inclusive policy extends beyond CAADP, evidenced by her work with UNDP on Policy Dialogue for the Informal Economy and with UNEP on the One Health programme, highlighting her understanding of the cross-sectoral nature of sustainable development.