"Before joining this program, I had begun constructing a home for my two youngest children, who are currently in school. However, I ran out of materials during the process and couldn't finish roofing the house. My main house isn't spacious enough to accommodate all of us, and I was concerned that the building poles used in its construction might dry up over time and compromise the structure, especially since it didn't have a roof. When I received my first transfer, I used a significant portion to purchase the remaining materials, including 16 iron sheets, timber, and nails. My plan is to complete the house soon so that my children have their own shelter. This will also free up some space in my main house, easing the challenge of living in cramped conditions, which wouldn't have been possible without the transfer."

"My husband is a farmer, and I sell fish to support our family. We have six children, four of whom are in primary school. When I received my most recent transfer, I decided to use part of it to strengthen my business. I invested $20 into my fish business to increase our earnings, and with the remaining funds, I bought household items like utensils and clothes worth $70. I also purchased foodstuff, including beans and maize, for $60. These purchases were essential for us, but the business boost was a priority because it’s our main source of income. Before receiving this transfer, I was unable to invest in my business due to financial difficulties. We were always struggling to make ends meet, and saving enough to grow the business seemed impossible. Now, with this support, I have been able to lift my business, provide for my family, and bring smiles to their faces. We are truly grateful for this assistance."

"I can honestly say that receiving cash from GiveDirectly has made a huge difference in my life. Before, I used to struggle so much to pay my daughter's school fees. Just last term, I had to sell three sheep to raise the money, and even then, it was a huge struggle to make ends meet. But this term, with the transfer, I didn't have to struggle at all—it boosted me. Not only was I able to cover her fees without any hassle, but I also started a small business that allows me to earn money daily, helping me buy household necessities and sustain my family. It's like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders, and I finally feel secure in my ability to provide for my loved ones."

"In the coming months, my goal is to continue using my subsequent transfers to purchase food. This will ensure that my family has a consistent food supply, and we never miss any meals. Additionally, I want to invest in livestock. The ability of livestock to multiply over time makes them a good investment. Once they reproduce, I can sell some and earn money that I can use to address my family's needs. To achieve this goal, I plan to save a portion of my transfers every month and use the accumulated amount to buy livestock. I am very happy and appreciative of the financial support that has helped my family live a better life despite the challenges we face. This assistance has given us hope and allowed us to maintain a good quality of life even in the face of difficult circumstances."

"My goal in the coming months is to continue using a portion of my transfers to buy food and ensure my family is well-fed. In addition to purchasing food, I want to invest in more livestock. To achieve this, I plan to save part of the transfers, which will eventually allow me to buy additional goats. Livestock is a good investment for me because they have the potential to multiply over time. Once the herd grows, I can sell some of them and use the money to address my family's needs, providing us with a stable source of income. I am very happy and appreciative of the financial support, which has helped me live a better life despite my financial struggles. This support has given me hope and allowed me to plan for a more secure and sustainable future for my family."

"With the money I received, the first thing I did was buy house furniture. I spent $100 on plastic chairs, a sofa set, and utensils because my house was completely empty. My child had built me a house, but we hadn’t been able to furnish it yet. Now, I can finally sit comfortably in my own home, and it feels like a big improvement. Having proper furniture gives me pride and comfort, especially when guests come to visit. Additionally, I used $30 to purchase a sheep. My plan is to let it multiply so that I can sell some in the future if there's an emergency or when I need extra money. Livestock is a form of savings for me, and once it grows, I'll use the income to invest in agricultural farming. It's my way of ensuring that I have a reliable source of income, even when times get tough. Lastly, I spent the remaining $50 on foodstuffs to stock my home. I used to depend on casual jobs like weeding, where I would earn $200 a day, but it wasn’t enough to cover everything. I am the only one at home since all my children are married, and my husband passed away three years ago. This cash transfer has made a big difference, giving me the peace of mind that my basic needs are now taken care of, and I can focus on growing my future."

"That day, while I was busy doing my house chores, my daughter came over and asked, "Mum, did you hear a message on your phone?" I told her, "Yes, but I haven’t checked it yet." Curious, I handed her my phone, and she said, "People are saying the money has arrived; let me check for you." When she looked, to my surprise, she smiled and told me, "Yes, you’ve received money from GiveDirectly!" I was overjoyed and immediately thanked God for sending blessings to my home. My first thought was to use the money to pay the school fees for my three children, who had been sent home due to unpaid fees. I had been so stressed, not knowing how to get them back to school, and this felt like a huge relief."

"Before receiving the cash transfer, I had no money to start livestock farming, and I felt hopeless after closing my business. I struggled to provide for my family and had to depend on my husband's irregular income. However, after getting the transfer, everything changed for the better. I was able to buy a cow and a sheep, making my dream of farming come true. Now I have a source of income and food for my family, which has reduced my stress. I am very grateful to GiveDirectly for this opportunity that has opened a new door in my life."

"While I was at the hospital taking care of my mother, who had been admitted, I didn’t even realize that the money had come in. It wasn’t until around 4 p.m. that I checked my phone and saw the message. I was overwhelmed with gratitude and immediately thanked God, as well as GiveDirectly, for the blessing. I had been thinking about leasing land for farming, but I didn’t have the capital to make it happen before. With this money, that dream suddenly felt possible."

"I was out on the farm weeding my beans when I heard my phone beep with a message notification, but I was too focused on my work to check it right away. After finishing up, I finally reached for my phone, and to my surprise and excitement, it was a message from GiveDirectly confirming that the cash transfer had come through. My heart leapt with joy. Immediately, my mind started racing with ideas, and I thought that it was a perfect opportunity to start the business I've always dreamed of. It felt like a turning point in my life, a real chance to change things for the better."