I want to discuss my trip to the largest slum in Nairobi called Kibera. Kibera is home to approximately 2 million people. I traveled there yesterday, accompanied by a local named Gabriel Kadidi, to see the microfinance operation being run by the local institution – Jamii Bora.

Gabriel grew up in this famous slum, walking to school shoeless and filthy. The other children for being a slumdog ostracized him yet he did not allow that to deter his efforts in school. Today, with the help of Jamii Bora and microfinance, he is a flourishing entrepreneur. Furthermore, he now holds the position as the Senior Information Officer at the Jamii Bora Trust. Gabriel hosts his own radio show that is broadcasted throughout the Kibera slum. His show focuses on encouraging people to empower themselves through Jamii Bora micro loans. He has won several awards, and although he would humbly deny it, he is quite a celebrity, not only in Kibera, but in Nairobi and beyond. Without microfinance these accomplishments could have never been attained. 

During the 2008 post election violence, his life was threatened on numerous occasions. Nevertheless, his sense of purpose and commitment to the philosophy of Jamii Bora enabled him to persevere. Now, many of the people that had at one time desired to kill him are prospering Jamii Bora loan recipients. I met many of these people while visiting Kibera. They spoke of Jamii Bora and Gabriel Kadidi as beacons of hope. Gabriel is living proof of the power of microfinance.

It is true; the slum is a place unlike anything you have probably witnessed before.  Poverty is ugly, BUT, stories such as Gabriel’s are literally multiplying as Jamii Bora grows in strength and numbers. The micro loans being provided by Jamii Bora today are providing people with a sense that they can EARN a better future for themselves and their families.

It is because of the countless stories like Gabriel’s I care so much…and my resolve is so strong. Change comes from the bottom up and we can all do SO much by giving SO little.