Evelyne Opondo

Evelyne Opondo is a globally recognized advocate for human rights, reproductive justice and gender equality—with over 24 years of transformative leadership in international development. Currently serving as Executive Director at the International Center for Research on Women Africa, she skillfully forges partnerships with policy makers, activists, private sector innovators and academic researchers worldwide to empower women and catalyse systemic change.

Her career is marked by groundbreaking achievements. As Senior Regional Director for Africa at the Center for Reproductive Rights, Evelyne devised and implemented forward-thinking legal strategies that redefined the reproductive justice landscape across Africa. At Ipas, in her role as Africa Policy Associate, she advanced critical reproductive justice initiatives by strategically collaborating with African Union organs and driving reforms across multiple nations.

Evelyne’s devotion to advancing women’s rights is further evidenced by her impactful work with the Federation of Women Lawyers Kenya and the Office of the Attorney General of Kenya, where she tirelessly advocated for legal and social reforms benefiting women. A respected thought leader, she has contributed incisive opinion and issue-oriented articles that continue to influence discourse on gender and human rights.

Her academic rigor is underpinned by a law degree from Pune University, India and a Master’s in Gender and Development from the University of Nairobi. A distinguished alumna of WomenLift Health’s East Africa leadership journey, Evelyne now serves as a Program Advisor in WomenLift Health’s Thematic Leadership Journey in Family Planning and Contraceptive Access—strengthening the capabilities and influence of emerging women leaders in global health.

Additionally, her commitment to advancing reproductive justice is manifest in her board memberships with FP2030, Ibis Reproductive Health, the Reproductive Health Network – Kenya and She’s the First. Through these roles, she continues to drive strategic initiatives that shape policy and empower women across Africa and beyond.