Ripple Launches Drought Relief Pilot in Kenya Using Stablecoin
Ripple has initiated a pilot project to provide drought relief in Kenya using its stablecoin, Ripple USD (RLUSD). This move comes shortly after Ripple integrated RLUSD into its payment solutions.
Ripple is collaborating with Mercy Corps Ventures adn DIVA Donate,a platform that uses decentralized finance to support drought-affected pastoralists in Kenya. The initiative aims to deliver financial aid thru blockchain technology and RLUSD.
The pilot is part of Ripple’s broader strategy to enhance cross-border payments. by using stablecoins, Ripple seeks to improve transparency, speed up settlements, and increase access for the unbanked.
According to Ripple, this trial will showcase how blockchain and stablecoins can improve aid and insurance delivery. The RLUSD will operate on the Ethereum (ETH) network.The RLUSD pool is open to public donations,allowing anyone to contribute by linking a wallet.
smart contracts will hold the funds and automatically distribute RLUSD to those affected by drought. Satellite tracking will trigger payouts if drought conditions are detected by May 31, 2025. Each participant will receive $75 in RLUSD, enough to buy food and water for one animal for six months.
Approximately 533 pastoralists in Laikipia County are expected to benefit. Ripple plans to share the pilot’s results this summer. Donors can withdraw their RLUSD or allocate it to future campaigns.
