YAPAD was born out of the urgent need to address the decades-long conflict, insecurity, and marginalization that have affected the shared border regions of Ethiopia, Somalia, and Kenya. These areas have long suffered from armed conflict, violent crime, extremist attacks, political instability, and the devastating effects of climate change.

Insecurity often stems from resource competition, clan power struggles, and environmental degradation, which have collectively weakened local livelihoods and created a cycle of poverty and violence.

Recognizing these challenges, YAPAD was founded to break these cycles by empowering communities with the right information, resources, and opportunities, enabling them to become champions of peace, development, and resilience.