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.
Kesi's family
access_time 11 months ago
Kesi received a $23 twenty-sixth payment.
"Receiving the recent unconditional cash transfer was a game-changer for me. I decided to allocate part of it to address a pressing issue: my broken-down motorcycle. I used the funds to purchase the necessary spare parts and pay for the labor needed to repair them. During the time my motorcycle was out of commission, I borrowed a friend's, and though I appreciated the favor, the commission I earned was significantly lower than what I was accustomed to—a mere $1.5. However, with my own motorcycle back in action, I now earn around $5, restoring my main source of income. Being a single man, this motorcycle is not just a means of transportation; it's the lifeline of my livelihood. It's how I make ends meet, and it's also laying the foundation for my future. As I look forward to starting a family soon, the repaired motorcycle ensures a more stable income. I'm not just saving for myself anymore; I'm saving for the family I aspire to build. The unconditional cash transfer has not only fixed my immediate problem but has also set me on a path to financial stability and the ability to meet the needs of the family I hope to have." (Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)
Kadenge's family
access_time 11 months ago
Kadenge received a $23 fourteenth payment.
"As the construction of my house nears completion, I am eager to start investing in livestock, specifically focusing on goats. This proves to be a promising venture, as goats thrive in our climate and assure a steady income. The forthcoming transfers will be dedicated to realizing this goal. Establishing a reliable income stream holds the promise of adequately addressing my family's needs, providing a sense of peace and stability in our household." (Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)
Mackline's family
access_time 11 months ago
Mackline received a $359 initial payment.
"While my phone was charging at home, I was occupied with my spouse. Little did I know that GiveDirectly had sent me money. However, when I took my phone out in the evening, an unexpected Mpesa message appeared. I was thrilled to see that it was from GiveDirectly, and I informed my husband right away that our blessings had finally arrived. He was also filled with excitement. As we sat at our table, our first thought was to fix our motorcycle, which had broken down. We knew that my husband would use the motorcycle for work, and that's where we would get our necessities." (Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)
Jumaa's family
access_time 11 months ago
Jumaa received a $23 twenty-first payment.
"In the upcoming year, I am optimistic that the received transfer will significantly improve my financial situation. Currently, I rely on a motorbike acquired through a loan, crucial for my business. My primary goal is to diligently repay the loan by next year, providing financial relief and enabling me to concentrate on expanding my poultry projects. Through diversifying income via poultry farming, I intend to establish additional revenue streams, bolstering overall financial stability. Once the loan burden is lifted, I will have the freedom to allocate more time, energy, and resources to foster the growth and success of my poultry ventures." (Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)
Alice's family
access_time 11 months ago
Alice received a $23 eighteenth payment.
"As a mother of one, my livelihood revolves around my tailoring job. In the past, life was marked by constant challenges, especially since my husband, who operates a motorcycle taxi, struggled to provide financial stability for our family. The difficulties were reflected in the frequent nights of going to bed hungry. However, the financial support we received has brought about a positive transformation in our lives. With this assistance, I was able to acquire my own sewing machine, transitioning from being employed to becoming self-employed. This change has not only stabilized my business but has also enabled us to purchase food, ensuring sustenance during the drought season. Utilizing $73 from the transfers, I invested in clothing materials to support my business, while the remaining $29 was allocated to acquiring food and essential household items. I am grateful for the opportunity to change my life, and I express deep appreciation for the assistance received."
Samson's family
access_time 11 months ago
Samson received a $23 twenty-first payment.
"Over the next year, my goal is to sell my chickens and transition into raising goats. Goats thrive in our area, presenting a promising venture for me. The decision is rooted in the recognition of the favorable conditions for goat farming, anticipating both personal benefits and economic sustainability. By diversifying into goat rearing, I aim to tap into the agricultural potential of our region, capitalizing on the resilience and productivity of goats. This aligns to my goal of cultivating a sustainable and profitable agricultural enterprise." (Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)
Samson's family
access_time 11 months ago
Samson received a $294 second payment.
"I aspire to kickstart an animal trading business and acquire a motorcycle for both taxi services and convenient mobility. My plan involves utilizing my third transfer along with the wages earned from my security guard job to realize this dream. The support we have received has been instrumental in remarkably improving our living standards, for which I am sincerely grateful."
Sidi's family
access_time 11 months ago
Sidi received a $347 second payment.
"The motorcycle that my son and I contributed to purchase is intended for business use and ought to generate some income for us. With this, I have guaranteed myself a daily income and won't even have to worry about running out of food or money to take care of myself. I want to be active and productive, not just idle around the house, which is why I plan to get goats. For that reason, my goals for the upcoming year and beyond are to tend to my animals as they flourish and to enjoy the few years I have left enjoying my income and good sleep in my new bed"
Elizabeth's family
access_time 11 months ago
Elizabeth received a $347 second payment.
"I Utilized the recent transfer of 550$ wisely, enhancing both my home and overall well being. I invested in livestock acquiring two additional goats, doubling my initial count to four. I also invested our motorcycle business by buying two extra tires. This not only strengthens my livelihood but also provide a sense of financial security. Improvement to my living space included adding two doors, replacing previous makeshift curtains. This upgrade not only offers a better sense of privacy but also ensures security of my belongings, Furthermore, I invested in a mattress which has improved the quality of sleep for me, my husband and our eight months old kid. In a thoughtful move, I set a side some funds for emergencies, to solidify my financial resilience."
Evans's family
access_time 12 months ago
Evans received a $295 second payment.
"In the upcoming year and beyond, I plan to diversify my income by venturing into the motorcycle taxi business alongside my current beekeeping activities. Managing over 40 beehives poses its challenges, particularly the extended time each hive takes to be harvested, producing a relatively small quantity of slightly more than 5kgs. Given the slow return, having an additional income source becomes imperative, especially as I am still living alone. I anticipate harvesting and selling honey from at least 10 of the hives I've set up early next year. The proceeds from this venture will serve as the initial deposit for a new motorbike, providing a daily income to support my daily sustenance."
motorcycle