I had gone to fetch firewood in the nearby bushes at around 4pm when I heard a message on my phone. Since I do not know how to read, I waited until I got home and asked my daughter to read the message, and when she told me it was the GiveDirectly transfers, I was overjoyed. Just as my name, Furaha, means happiness, I felt an overwhelming sense of joy. Immediately, I started thinking about how I could finally build a new house, something I had dreamed of for so long. This unexpected blessing was the beginning of a brighter future for my family and me.

With the money I received, I was able to start my own business baking cakes, bread, and cookies. Now, on a good day, I can make about $6. It may not seem like much to some, but compared to my previous situation, it's a world of difference. Before this, I used to burn charcoal and take on other casual jobs, and those would only bring in around $10 every two weeks. Plus, the work was extremely exhausting and labor-intensive. I was always tired and barely making enough to take us for some time. Now, not only am I earning more consistently, but the work I do is much less physically demanding. The most rewarding part is that I can now provide for my children’s daily needs, including their school requirements, which was something I could never do before. The financial stability and the ability to support my family have been life-changing.

When I received the cash transfer, I first bought a charcoal oven for $200. I had been taught how to bake a while back, but I never had the means to get an oven. With the new oven, I started baking cakes and bread. Using $10, I also purchased baking flour and other essential ingredients to kickstart my baking business. This small investment has already begun to bring in extra income, which is a huge relief. Next, I used $250 of the transfer to buy construction materials like iron sheets and roofing nails. Our current house is too small to accommodate my entire family, forcing some members to sleep at the neighbors'. I am eagerly waiting for the mason to come and start the construction of our new house. Lastly, with the remaining money, I bought household food items and detergents. It's a season of food scarcity, and this money could not have come at a better time. The cash transfer has allowed me to secure essentials for my family, ensuring we have enough to eat. This support has been transformative, giving me the means to improve our living conditions and sustain our basic needs.