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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.
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Enrollment
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Completed
Newsfeed > Ahamin's Profile
Ahamin's family
Ahamin
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Motorcycle or bicycle taxi
faceAge:
36
workCampaign
Kenya Large Transfer
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($457 USD)
access_time over 1 year ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
I have a new goal of starting a new business selling charcoal and firewood in the village. I feel that this is the best business that I can operate without experiencing challenges because it is very easier to handle. Also according to my research, it is very lucrative.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
In my opinion, GiveDirectly has been good in my life by supporting us financially. Apart from that, the enrolment process was fair and free provided one met the criteria. Therefore I can't single out anything that went wrong so far.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent part of my second transfer on buying a motorbike at KES 35000. I am glad that finally, I have a reliable source of income unlike before whereby I used to depend on casual jobs to meet my daily needs. Also, I bought iron sheets at KES 17500 for the renovation of my house which had an old leaky roof. It was so stressful because I had to shift to my friend's house which was very far from the village. As a result, I ended up losing and damaging my precious properties. I am now feeling thankful and happy because I will not have to worry about the weather changes or insecurities. Apart from that, I cleared school fees of KES 2000 for my three kids who are all in primary schools. I bought food for my family which is composed of five members.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($477 USD)
access_time 2 years ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
It was exactly 6 in the evening and I was still at my daily hustle when I heard the vibrations from my phone. I was a bit curious and decided to check who it was since I was not expecting to hear from anyone. Upon checking, I realized that I had received my first KES 55000 from GiveDirectly that I had been promised earlier. I was overjoyed with happiness for acquiring such an amazing gift in my life. Due to the excitement that I had, I decided to rush back home and shared the good news with all my family members.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference in my daily life is that I now have peace of mind. The fact that I managed to clear the debt has restored my happiness in life. Earlier on they used to frustrate me and even wanted to take the motorbike till when the debt is settled. I was so worried because I have been the family breadwinner of three children. If at all they would take it, my children will no longer be going to school, they will have nothing to eat, and even no decent clothing. I am so grateful to GiveDirectly because after receiving my cash transfer, I had to prioritize this matter for the sake of my family's wellbeing. This was achievable and for now, I no longer have to worry about it and I have been operating and earning good returns. I can confidently provide for all the basic needs of my family without having to struggle like before.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent part of my first transfer on clearing the debt of KES 20000 from a friend. A few months ago, I bought a motorbike on credit and I am happy that the organization came at a good time because the owner used to frustrate me a lot. Later on, I bought iron sheets at KES 17500 which was for the construction of my new house since the previous one had a leaky roof and weak walls. During the rainy seasons, it was so hectic because I used to experience lots of damage and was sometimes forced to seek shelter from neighbors. In addition, I paid school fees of KES 1500 for my three kids in primary school. With the remaining amount of money, I have been buying foodstuff for my family and other household items.
 
Enrolled
access_time over 2 years ago
 
What does receiving this money mean to you?
My children's education is vital. I have three children who are in primary school. They were recently sent home for school fees arrears. Investing in their education is my priority. I am confident if I take care of their interest today they will not forget me tomorrow.
What is the happiest part of your day?
In 2021, September was my best month. Finally, I would own my motorcycle. The thought of being self-employed not having to hire someone else motorcycle was exciting. When I came home with it I could see the excitement also on my son's face and I quickly took him for a ride to celebrate the moment as father and son.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
The cost of living is high currently, a few years ago a bag of flour would cost 90 KES, today a bag goes for more than 110 KES. It has made life hard for us villagers. I am a motorcycle rider, on a good day, I make about 1000 KES. Half the amount I use to pay off the motorcycle. I bought it on hire purchase and every day I have to send 500 KES to the company. The rest of the money I budget is on food, school fees, and the general maintenance of the motorcycle. Fuel alone costs me a lot, and once it goes high there is a ripple effect on every other need.