Drain yams and arrange in 10x6x2-inch baking dish.
Drain apricots, reserving syrup. Add water, as required, to equal 1 cup liquid; set aside. Arrange apricot halves over yams.
In saucepan, combine brown sugar, cornstarch, salt and cinnamon. Stir in apricot syrup and raisins. Cook over high heat, stirring constantly, until mixture boils. Stir in sherry and grated orange peel.
Pour mixture over yams and apricots. Bake, uncovered, in 350 degree oven, basting occasionally for 20 minutes or until well glazed.