Expanding my papaya farm has become my primary goal for this year and the years ahead. It all began with the initial transfer from GiveDirectly, which enabled me to start the farm. Now, I plan to utilize part of the current farm produce for our daily household needs while allocating the rest towards expanding the farm. This decision holds immense promise for me. By expanding the farm, I anticipate a significant increase in income. This additional revenue will not only allow me to meet our daily needs more comfortably but also provide the opportunity to save for emergencies and future projects. With each papaya harvested, I see the potential for growth and prosperity. It's not just about cultivating a crop; it's about nurturing a source of stability and security for my family's future. Through diligent care and dedication, I aim to transform our small papaya farm into a thriving enterprise, one that sustains us and paves the way for greater opportunities ahead.

GiveDirectly has truly been a game-changer for me. Thanks to their unconditional cash transfers, I've been able to achieve significant milestones. I've paid my son's university fees, and now he's on the brink of graduation. This accomplishment fills me with immense pride and gratitude. With the financial assistance from GiveDirectly, I ventured into farming, focusing on a crop that I'm truly passionate about: papaya. Through dedication and hard work, I've turned my passion into a thriving venture. Planting papaya has not only provided me with a source of income but has also brought me joy and fulfillment. As I reflect on my journey with GiveDirectly, I can confidently say that I support all their current programs wholeheartedly. Their approach of providing unconditional cash transfers has proven to be effective and impactful. I have no recommendations for change because I believe in the power of their initiatives to uplift individuals and communities, just like mine.

Receiving $450 from GiveDirectly was like a ray of hope shining into my life. It was a lifeline, a blessing that brought immense joy. With a grateful heart, I immediately put $250 towards my son's university education. He's in his fourth year at Umma University, and seeing him graduate this year means everything to me. I believe his education will be the key to unlocking countless opportunities for him, paving the way for a brighter future for our family. The remaining $200 went towards something equally important: building a kitchen. Currently, I cook outside, but when it rains, it's a real challenge. So, investing in construction materials was crucial. I envision a comfortable kitchen where we can prepare meals comfortably, regardless of the weather. This improvement will not only enhance our well-being but also bring us greater comfort, especially during the rainy seasons.

In the next few years, I aim to achieve two important things. Firstly, I want to complete my kitchen, making it a comfortable space for cooking. I also plan to buy a water tank to ensure a fresh water supply for drinking. These goals are important to me because having a functional kitchen and access to clean water will contribute to the health and well-being of my family. Achieving these milestones will bring me great happiness.

GiveDirectly is doing a great job, and they should continue in the same way. Providing direct cash has been beneficial in reducing school dropouts due to fee burden in my Chepkotoyan village in Baringo.

Recently, I received $450 from GiveDirectly, and I joyfully put it to good use. Allocating $10 to farming, I invested in grean grams and papaya cultivation, ensuring a future source of food for my family. Recognizing the importance of education, I dedicated $20 to cover school fees for one of my children in university, fostering their growth and knowledge. Another $10 was wisely spent to set up a kitchen, alleviating the challenge of cooking outdoors during unfavorable weather conditions, enhancing the overall convenience of my daily life.

The day I received my transfer is etched in my memory. While at the farm, I overheard my neighbors discussing the initial transfer receipt, prompting me to swiftly return to my house. Grabbing my phone, I hurriedly checked and found a text message confirming that I had also received my share. The joy that swept over me was immense, knowing that I could promptly address my children's school fees needs. I am deeply thankful for the support and relieved that God has finally remembered me.

The most significant change in my daily life is the realization of my goal to swiftly pay my son's school fees, a feat I once believed unattainable due to financial limitations. It is truly a dream come true. The satisfaction and relief I feel, knowing that my son is comfortably pursuing his studies at a university far from home, are immense. I express gratitude for the assistance that has elevated our standard of living.

Covering the university tuition for my son has been a persistent challenge due to my reliance on farming, which sometimes yields limited income insufficient to meet all our needs, including my children's education. There were instances when I had to sell my goats and cow to bridge the gap in school fees. I am married and blessed with 10 children and grandchildren. Upon receiving my first transfer, I allocated $180 for school fees and used the remaining $20 to purchase maize. I am now relieved that my son can focus on his studies comfortably, as the tuition fees have been settled. This is a marked improvement from the past when he would miss exams due to outstanding fees.