I intend to venture into rearing chicken most preferably the layers breed. I will be able to sell the eggs both wholesale and retail in the nearby market. This will be an additional income to the family thus our basic needs will be met with much ease.

The cash transfer to every household in our village was of great help in that we managed to invest a lot in the construction, livestock, and subsistence farming that we had been struggling with a lot. The freedom to spend on our choices enabled every individual to address the pain points in their households and ensure that they come to the same level as any other village member. No one complained then and even at the moment, we are still thankful for the generous support that was well executed by GiveDirectly.

I spent $300 of the second transfer on the construction of a new house for my family of three. We had been living in a small house that could not give my children any privacy since it was an open room. With the new construction, they now have a separate room from mine and a spacious living room where we meet to dine. I am grateful for this transformation that has made us more comfortable compared to how it was before. I was able to replace our old, ripped mattress and bed with new ones costing $230 and we can now sleep comfortably. The little money I make from working at the quarry, we use that to purchase daily food and other needed stuff.

My phone was off the whole day until in the evening when I went to pick it up from the market center where it was charging. The moment when I switched it on I was welcomed with a text message and to my surprise, it was Mpesa message confirming that I had received KES 55000 from Give Directly. I could not believe and I had to let my spouse confirm if indeed there was money in my account. I felt so happy and thanked God for the support.

The biggest difference in my daily life since I started receiving the transfers is the financial stability. I feel so much relieved. Previously I was the sole breadwinner and my income was too low to meet daily household needs. In most cases, I would rely on borrowing in order to provide for the family which led me to a lot of debts. Having started a business for my spouse we now both provide for the family.

I have a single room house, and we are four in our family. The children are growing so fast and soon it will not be comfortable sharing the same sleeping room with them. Being the sole breadwinner with very little income that could barely afford a whole day's meal, I could not construct a bigger house. I am, therefore, in the process of constructing a new bigger house with the first transfer. I spent KES 45000 on timber, iron sheets, nails, and construction labor. The house is halfway and hopefully, by Saturday this week we shall occupy the house. I am so excited and can not wait to occupy it. I feel so proud for making such a big step. If it was not for the transfers, I would not have made it. Part of the money KES 5000 I gave to my spouse so that she could use it to start up a business where she sells fish. The business is doing great, and I am glad she is no longer idle and does not depend on me fully. This has made it easier when it comes to meeting our household needs. I still have KES 5000 saved for use in case there will be a shortage in the construction work.