GDLive Newsfeed
We check in with people at each stage of the cash transfer process to see how things are going. Take a look at some of their stories as they appear here in real-time.
Learn more about how recipients opt in to share their stories.
Happy Holidays!
GDLive updates will be slower while GiveDirectly's Africa offices are closed over the holidays.
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27 days ago
Ramadhani
received a $27 twenty-eighth payment.
"By next year, I plan to start keeping sheep in my homestead for business purposes. After conducting my own research, I discovered that sheep farming is thriving in this area, as there is consistently high demand. Since I am growing weary of the house construction work I currently handle, I believe this venture will be the best option for me and for those who depend on me. To achieve this goal, I am planning to borrow a loan from one of the microfinance groups I am part of. I am confident this is achievable because I have always been approved for loans since joining the initiative. With proper planning, I believe that once I buy the sheep and start the business, life will become much easier, especially when it comes to providing for my family."
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27 days ago
Leropid
received a $348 second payment.
"I really appreciate how the officers from GiveDirectly treated everyone in the village equally. They were kind and respectful when talking to us, and they made sure to enroll everyone in the village without any discrimination. I felt that they genuinely cared about us and our well-being. Throughout the process, I didn’t notice anything bad from GiveDirectly; everything went smoothly. The way they handled the situation was fair and transparent. I believe they are doing a great job, and I would encourage them to continue helping communities like ours in the same manner."
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27 days ago
Janet
received a $348 second payment.
"My husband and I decided to use the unconditional cash transfer to build a better house for our family. Our current home was too small to accommodate all of us, so we used $420 to build a larger room made of iron sheets. This new house will provide more space and comfort for our children, who deserve a proper place to live. It feels good knowing that we are working towards something better for our family’s future. After completing the house, I used the remaining $30 to purchase medicines for my livestock. I wanted to ensure their health improves, as healthy animals are essential for our livelihood. We plan to sell the livestock in the future to help support our family’s needs. This small investment in their care is crucial for our long-term goals.Taking care of my five children and managing the household has been a challenge, especially when life was difficult. However, with the help of this cash transfer, things are much better now. My husband and I both work as farmers, focusing on crops and livestock, and we're starting to see positive changes in our lives. We're hopeful for the future and grateful for the support that has allowed us to improve our situation."
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27 days ago
Asha
received a $348 second payment.
"My plan for the coming years is to relocate to my new plot of land once I receive my third transfer. I will clear the remaining bill for the land and move there immediately, as it will provide a safer environment for my family and me. I’ve been struggling with floods on my current land, which makes it difficult to farm and live peacefully. Once I move, I will focus on using the land for farming, where I hope to grow enough food and create a more stable life. I am determined to make the most of this opportunity, as I know it will improve my family's situation. Moving to this new land will give me peace of mind and a chance to rebuild our lives."
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27 days ago
Helima
received a $348 second payment.
"When I received my unconditional cash transfer, I had a clear plan on how to use it. I decided to purchase a cow for $210, and I’m happy to say that it has already given birth. Now, I can enjoy fresh milk every day, which has significantly improved my family’s health. Before, we used to buy milk, but now that I have my own cow, I no longer have to spend money on it. Additionally, I used $120 to pay school fees for my two children. In the past, I relied on selling livestock to cover school fees, so I chose to keep my sheep instead of selling them, knowing they could bring in money in the future.Furthermore, I spent $20 to weed my farm, which had been destroyed by floods. The flood damage left me struggling, but I’m working hard to restore my farm so I can grow crops again. The remaining $100 went toward food for my family, as I rely on farming and casual jobs to provide for us. With five children to take care of, the money has been a great help. Since my husband passed away a long time ago, I have been managing everything on my own. This cash transfer has lightened my burden, allowing me to focus on building a better future for my children. I am truly grateful for the support, and it has made a big difference in our lives."
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27 days ago
Andrew
received a $348 second payment.
"When the officers came, they were very humble and treated us with respect. They took their time to advise us and asked questions patiently, ensuring we understood everything. If we didn’t understand something, they were kind enough to repeat the questions until we were clear. I truly appreciate how they approached us with concern and care. I didn’t see anything bad from GiveDirectly; everything was well done. I am grateful for their support and hope they continue helping those in need."
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27 days ago
Christine
received a $348 second payment.
"The officers from GiveDirectly treated us with respect and kindness, speaking to us in a polite and professional manner. They asked questions appropriately, ensuring we understood the process and felt comfortable sharing our needs. I appreciated how they took the time to educate us about the unconditional cash transfer program and offered guidance on making wise decisions with the money. Their approach made us feel valued and empowered to improve our lives. Honestly, I didn’t notice anything wrong with GiveDirectly’s program or how it was handled. Everything was well-organized, and I am truly grateful for their support."
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27 days ago
Esther
received a $348 second payment.
"My plan for the coming years is to focus on expanding my poultry business, which has proven to be profitable, especially during the December holiday when the demand for chickens is very high. With my third transfer, I intend to purchase more chickens, as I can sell each hen for $10, making it a great source of income. This money will help me provide food for my family and cover school fees. Furthermore, I want to ensure my grandchildren, who are only three years old and currently staying with me, will have access to a good education when they reach school age. I believe this investment in both my business and my grandchildren’s future is the best way to improve our lives. Through careful planning and dedication, I am confident that I can create a stable and secure life for my family."
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27 days ago
Helen
received a $348 second payment.
"Life has always been a challenge for me, but this cash transfer gave me a new sense of hope and determination. With my second transfer, I spent $250 to purchase pest control and pesticides for my tomato farm, which I started using my first transfer. I had observed my neighbors growing tomatoes and earning huge profits, so I decided to follow their example. It turned out to be a great idea because I have already harvested and earned $1,400, with more harvests still coming. This success has transformed my life, and I am deeply grateful to GiveDirectly for providing me with the capital to start farming. It feels amazing to see such a significant return on my investment. Additionally, I used $140 to buy four sheep, viewing them as a future source of income. My plan is to sell these sheep when needed, especially to pay school fees for my five children. As a single provider, this is critical because my husband, unfortunately, does not contribute due to his struggles with alcohol. The remaining $60 was spent on food, as I previously relied on casual jobs to feed my family. These funds helped ease the burden and provided a sense of security for my household. Today, life is brighter and more stable for me and my children. The tomato farming venture has not only brought income but has also shown me that with the right resources, I can achieve much more. I never imagined earning so much from farming, and for this, I am truly thankful to GiveDirectly. This opportunity has given me the strength to face the future with optimism and hope."
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27 days ago
Oscar
enrolled.
"I have been taking care of my ailing father for over 10 years now, with an unknown condition, and this has been the biggest challenge I am facing. Shortly after my mother passed on, my father developed an unknown condition which has drained me financially. I am the last born in a family of 4 yet we don't have any source of income apart from my four goats. In case my father becomes sick, I am forced to sell one or two to meet his medical expenses. Getting casual work here is hard to come by and when the chance to get one knocks, I barely earn beyond KES 250 a day. Coupled with all these, I feel life has been unfair to us as a family."
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