African Social Development Focus (ASDEF) is a non-governmental, non-profit organization founded in 2013 and registered under the NGO Coordination Board of Kenya (Reg. No. OP.218/051/13-044/8863), with recognition as a civil society actor in Somalia and Ethiopia. ASDEF is proud to be a disability-led organization, with persons with disabilities represented in its leadership, governance and programme design.

Guided by the principles of equity, participation, and accountability, ASDEF works to empower vulnerable communities to overcome poverty, build resilience, and seize opportunities for long-term transformation. Our focus is on the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) of Wajir, Mandera, Garissa and Tana River Counties in Kenya, and the cross-border cluster with Somalia and Ethiopia, where communities face recurrent drought, conflict, displacement, and weak access to essential services.

ASDEF’s headquarters is in Wajir, with field offices in Mandera, Garissa and Hola (Tana River), and a regional presence extending to Moyale and the Somali Region of Ethiopia. Working across this cluster, ASDEF addresses cross-border vulnerabilities through integrated approaches that foster social cohesion, promote peace, and reduce the risks that fuel cycles of crisis.

Our programs provide context-specific solutions that strengthen food security, diversify income sources, and expand access to essential services. All interventions are designed to be sustainable and community-driven. Over the years, ASDEF has built a strong reputation as a trusted development partner, collaborating with local communities, governments, development agencies, and the private sector.

Our work emphasizes social, economic, and environmental resilience, integrating practices in climate adaptation, livelihoods, education, health, peacebuilding, governance and electoral integrity, and humanitarian response. Through partnerships, capacity building, and advocacy, we amplify the voices of marginalized communities and champion inclusive development practices that leverage local knowledge and resources.

ASDEF envisions a more equitable and prosperous future for individuals, families, and communities across ASAL regions and beyond.