About us
Our Story
The Africa Youth Pastoralist Initiative (AYPI) is a dynamic and transformative organization that emerged from a regional consultation held in September 2022 at Lukenya University in Makueni County, Kenya. This gathering brought together young pastoralists from across Africa who were united by a shared commitment to address the profound challenges posed by climate change and other pressing issues within pastoralist communities. With support from prominent organizations such as the CGIAR, International Livestock Research Institutes (ILRI), Climate Smart Agriculture Youth Network Global (GCSAYN), PROCASUR, ILRI and IYRP, AYPI was established as a catalyst for change.
Our Mission
AYPI’s mission is to empower youth pastoralists as we address the unique challenges they face. Our pastoral traditional way of life is threatened by shifting weather patterns, droughts, and resources scarcity because of the changing climate.
Our Vision
Our vision is to become a leading organization globally in pastoral community development. To unify and amplify the pastoralist youth voices in Africa. We aspire to expand our reach and operations to more countries in the coming years.
Objectives
AYPI has several core objectives, including:
- Empowering Youth: AYPI aims to empower young pastoralists with knowledge, skills, and resources to effectively address climate change and other challenges in their communities.
- Advocacy and Policy Influence: The organization advocates for policies and governance structures that support pastoralism and promote the interests of pastoralist youth.
- Technology Integration: AYPI focuses on bridging the gap between traditional knowledge and modern technology, harnessing innovation for sustainable pastoralism.
- Security and Livelihoods: AYPI seeks to enhance the security of pastoralist livelihoods by addressing issues such as livestock theft, social conflicts, and rangeland tenure.
- Expansion and Collaboration: AYPI is committed to expanding its reach to more African countries, collaborating with international organizations, governments, and donor agencies to amplify its impact.