Resilience in Action: Baraka’s Transformation Through Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance

In the remote community of Salamabila in the Maniema province, Democratic Republic of Congo, displacement and conflict have forced thousands of families to rebuild their lives from scratch. Among these internally displaced persons (IDPs) is Mr. Baraka Shukuru, a physically challenged man determined not to let his circumstances define him. His story exemplifies how multi-purpose cash support from ActionAid’s ECHO-funded project can transform lives, offering hope to the most vulnerable.

A Life Disrupted by Conflict

Baraka’s life changed drastically when conflict broke out in his village. Forced to flee with nothing, he arrived at an IDP camp with limited resources and even fewer opportunities for people living with disabilities. “Living with physical challenges is hard enough. But being displaced makes it even more difficult,” he says. Baraka’s dream was to find a way to live independently, but opportunities were scarce.

Empowered Through Multipurpose Cash Support

Through the ECHO project, ActionAid identified Baraka as one of the beneficiaries for multi-purpose cash assistance—an initiative designed to give vulnerable households the freedom to meet their most pressing needs.

“I wasn’t sure how the money would help me at first,” Baraka reflects. “But then I thought about mobile credit. People always need airtime, and I realized that this could be my chance to make a living.”

Using the cash support, Baraka purchased an initial stock of mobile credit and set up a small business selling airtime. With his earnings, he’s been able to provide for his basic needs, ensuring that he no longer depends entirely on humanitarian aid.

A Step Towards Independence and Dignity

Baraka’s business is now thriving, and he has begun to dream of expansion. “What I love most is that I’m not just surviving—I’m building something. I can make my own money, support myself, and even help others.”

His story is a testament to the power of choice. Rather than being limited to specific forms of aid, multi-purpose cash allowed Baraka to invest in a business that best suited his environment and abilities. His newfound independence has also positively impacted his self-esteem, giving him a sense of dignity and purpose.

Beyond Baraka: The Impact of Multipurpose Cash Assistance

Baraka’s experience highlights how the ECHO-funded initiative promotes resilience by giving people the power to decide how to rebuild their lives. For many beneficiaries, this support means more than just meeting immediate needs—it represents an opportunity to regain autonomy and dignity, laying the foundation for a sustainable future.

Looking to the Future

Baraka’s dream is to grow his business and employ other displaced persons facing challenges similar to his own. “If I can make it, I believe others can too,” he says with a smile. His resilience serves as an inspiration to the community, demonstrating that with the right support, even those most affected by crises can rebuild their lives and thrive.

Conclusion

Baraka Shukuru’s journey is a reminder that humanitarian assistance is most effective when it respects individual agency. Through the ECHO project’s multi-purpose cash support, Baraka was able to reclaim control over his life and build a business that offers him a sense of stability and hope. His story shows that when people are empowered to make their own choices, they can overcome challenges and create lasting change—not just for themselves, but for their communities as well.

This story is just one example of the impact that multi-purpose cash assistance can have in restoring dignity and enabling displaced persons to rebuild their lives.