Introducing IPYG Affiliate Organization – Young Africans for Peace and Development(YAPAD)

 

 

Young Africans for Peace and Development (YAPAD) is a community-based organization operating in Kenya, Ethiopia, and Somalia to promote peace, social justice, and sustainable development. Founded in 2018, YAPAD has offices in Nairobi, Marsabit, and Mandera, expanding its efforts to provide tangible support to communities affected by border conflicts and instability.

YAPAD facilitates inter-community peace forums in border regions and provides mediation and peace education for young people. Additionally, it engages in environmental protection and climate action while supporting the empowerment of women and youth through vocational training and small-scale financial assistance programs. The organization also works to improve healthcare services and establish clean water and sanitation facilities.

 

 

Recognizing the need to strengthen youth-led peacebuilding initiatives, YAPAD partnered with the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) on September 20, 2024. This partnership aims to spread a culture of peace through peace education, environmental protection, and nonviolent conflict resolution.

Halima Mohamed Sheikh, Executive Director of YAPAD, shared the following remarks about this partnership.

“IPYG’s vision of achieving world peace through youth participation deeply aligns with our mission. Through this partnership, we will provide young people with the skills and opportunities they need to actively engage in peace initiatives.”

Following the partnership, YAPAD and the IPYG are planning youth-led peace discussions, leadership training workshops, and campaigns promoting nonviolent solutions. They are also developing concrete strategies for youth-led environmental initiatives and promoting a culture of nonviolence and peace. The two organizations are finalizing plans for effective implementation and will launch projects that create meaningful impact.

YAPAD encourages young people worldwide to take an active role in building peace within their communities. Halima Mohamed Sheikh, Executive Director of YAPAD, emphasized that young people have the power to create a more peaceful world.

“To all young leaders across the globe, your voice and actions matter. Peace starts with us—through education, dialogue, and unwavering commitment, we can build societies where conflicts are resolved without violence, and opportunities are created for all. Let us continue working together for a future grounded in peace, understanding, and mutual respect.”

Moving forward, YAPAD will strengthen its collaboration with the IPYG to empower young people beyond East Africa to take the lead in peacebuilding worldwide.