Looking ahead to the next two years, my ambitions are centered on expanding my current charcoal business into a thriving enterprise. I envision dealing in larger quantities and scaling up operations to meet the demands of a broader market. Simultaneously, I plan to venture into a new business realm selling plastic utensils, a venture I believe will bring additional stability and prosperity to my family. The seed capital for these ventures will be sourced from my current means of income, a motorcycle hustle that has sustained me thus far. With determination and strategic planning, I am confident that in two years, I'll be celebrating the realization of these aspirations, marking a significant step toward providing a better life for my family through successful and diversified business ventures.

In my humble opinion, GiveDirectly has truly excelled in making a tangible difference in our village. The transformative impact is evident in the positive changes that have unfolded since we received their unconditional cash transfer. The money provided a lifeline for us, the needy, catalyzing improvements that extend beyond just financial relief. From the revitalized sense of hope to the visible changes in our community's living conditions, it's apparent that GiveDirectly's approach is making a meaningful impact where it matters most. The way our village has evolved reflects the effectiveness of their direct giving model, showing that when resources are placed directly into the hands of those in need, it has the power to create lasting, positive change.

After receiving my second transfer, the first thing on my mind was my daughter's education. I used $75 to pay for her junior secondary school fees, providing her with the stability and opportunity I had long wished for. The constant struggle to gather funds had affected her education, but now, with this financial support, she could focus on her studies without interruptions. Additionally, $98, went towards hiring someone to plough my two and a half acres of land. With the rain pouring, the decision to invest in farming was timely. Previously, I could only cultivate one acre with my own hands. Now, with a hired hand and favorable weather, I am optimistic about a bountiful harvest, putting an end to the persistent threat of famine that has haunted my family for years. I also used $51 to repair my motorcycle, my sole source of income. Being back on the road meant I could resume providing for my family, sparing them the hardships of my period of unemployment. Looking forward, I plan to invest in goats, confident that the climate will foster their growth, providing an emergency fund for my family. Finally, I have aspirations for my wife to start a vegetable-selling business in February, creating a new avenue for income. With these thoughtful investments, the unconditional cash transfers have not only eased our immediate financial struggles but have also sown the seeds for a more secure and prosperous future for my family of four.

Whispers of joy filled the air as people shared news of receiving money from GiveDirectly. On the second day unaware and anxious about my fate I plugged in my phone. A message illuminated the screen, I received $550 from GiveDirectly. A rush of happiness enveloped in me, and in that moment my thoughts raced to building a home with an extra room for my daughter, ensuring she could have her own space to study and sleep peacefully.

Receiving payments from GiveDirectly has transformed my life in profound ways. The most significant change is evident in my ability to own a motorbike, which serves both business and personal transportation needs. The burden of financial stress has lifted, contributing to a substantial improvement in my mental well-being. In addition, the introduction of a television has brought joy to my family, enhancing our shared moments. On the economic side, my family life has significantly improved, allowing me to expand my agricultural endeavours. Previously constrained by limited capital and energy, I now cultivate four acres of land, focusing on maize production. This has not only increased my agricultural output but has also provided a sense of stability and empowerment that was absent before GiveDirectly.

Firstly, I decided to build a new home, replacing the makeshift and outdated one that I had been living in. This allowed me to create a more secure and peaceful living space for myself and my family. Additionally, I used part of the funds to settle the remaining balance of my child's school fees, ensuring her education continues uninterrupted. I also invested some of the funds in my motorbike business that will ensure that my family has sustainable income going forward.