Guwnguwa, Ethiopia — 2026 – In a bid to support vulnerable micro-entrepreneurs, ACEO has launched a direct cash transfer program benefiting many gulit traders—small-scale vendors selling goods along roadsides. The initiative provides each trader with a one-time grant to help sustain their businesses amid rising costs and economic pressures.
The cash transfer is unconditional, allowing recipients to use the funds as they see fit—whether for purchasing inventory, covering school fees, or meeting urgent household needs. The program is part of ACEO’s broader commitment to economic empowerment and community resilience, as outlined in its five-year strategic plan.
Mr. Tarku Gamede, ACEO’s Co-Founder and Executive Director, explained: “These small-scale traders are the backbone of our local economy, yet they are often overlooked. By providing direct cash support, we are not only helping them survive but also enabling them to thrive. It’s a step toward sustainable livelihoods and poverty reduction.”
