We check in with people at each stage of the cash transfer process to see how things are going. Take a look at some of their stories as they appear here in real-time.
Learn more about how recipients opt in to share their stories.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
It was around 6 pm, I was outside my house at the fireplace relaxing while busking around the fire with my brother as we narrate stories while waiting for our dinner. I heard continuous message alerts on my mobile phone. I called my daughter to confirm and interpret the messages on the phone. I felt very happy for receiving my transfer which will transform my life for the better.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference is that I currently staying in a decent house after renovating my house which was about to collapse. Living in a nice house has made my life more comfortable unlike before when I was worried whenever it start raining.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent KES 38,000 to repair my house which was collapsing by putting up a new roof. I bought timbers, 7 more iron sheets, nails, and paid labor charges. Previously, I was living in a house that leaks a lot during the rainy season. I had wished to renovate it but I lacked the financial muscles. At the moment, I am living in a proper house something that has installed happiness in my life. I also spent the remaining amount on food for my family of 8 members since we are experiencing drought and famine in our area.
Enrolled
access_time over 2 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money means better education for my 3 children who are still in school, one in secondary and 2 in primary school. They have always been at home because of the school fees arrears. Education is the key to success and I believe though giving them better education can impact them with the necessary knowledge to be independent in the future. With the second transfer, I will buy five goats and one cow this can multiply and when I see them I will be remembering GiveDirectly. I sew baskets using sisal ropes and this has always helped to get my daily bread. I will buy more sisal ropes so that I can be able to sew more baskets and doormats.
What is the happiest part of your day?
In the last six months, I am happy to have stayed peacefully in the village. I am considered to be the role model for the village, people come to consult me for any conflict and I am humbled to resolve them. This brings joy to see am wise enough to solve any dispute in my village and it brings peace and harmony.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
My wife passed two years ago and currently, the challenge that I am facing is not having companionship. She used to cook for me, wash my clothes, and warm water for me to take a bath. Things have changed since she passed, l have to cook for myself and wash my clothes which I was not used to it. Sometimes I go fetch water for myself and this brings shame to me because this should be done by women. This has lowered my self-esteem as being a man.
