Since the climatic conditions look favorable lately, I am regaining some hope in maize farming. For instance, lately the rains have been constant, and farmers look forward to a great harvest. Because of this, my plan for the next year is to cultivate maize on my 2-acre piece of land so as to produce food for my family of four as well as earn the household income through the maize sales. As a result, I will not only borrow food from neighbors but also donate some to my children when they need it. I hope to accomplish this by using the profits from the milk sales alongside assistance from my children since I am elderly and can no longer fend for the family fully.

The unconditionality of the transfers has made it easier for people to meet their needs. I am glad that lives have changed as lifestyles have improved and people have constructed houses, unlike previously when they lived in dilapidated states. I never wish the organization to change their way of working as it stands; everything is fine.

Food, shelter, and clothing are the basic needs each family should have, and I am glad to have accomplished all this for my family of four. I commenced constructing a three-room house when I received my first transfer in March 2023. However, I had not done it to completion, and I am glad the second transfer made it a success, as I used all the transfers on cementing the floors as well as erecting a ceiling board. I have not been able to accomplish this before because the maize and livestock farming that my family depends on has been immensely affected by the unfavorable climatic conditions, therefore cutting into the produce. Before then, we used to harvest up to 8 bags of maize on a 1-acre piece of land, unlike now, when we can harvest 1 or nothing at all. For the milk production, I now sell 3 liters daily for $1.22, which all caters to food for the household.

The moment I received my transfer from GiveDirectly is etched in my memory. I was at home, taking a moment to relax, when I heard my neighbors ululating in joy. Curious, I asked my children to check my phone, and to my delight, they discovered that the money had been deposited. A wave of happiness washed over me, and I was filled with excitement at the prospect of being able to pursue my dreams. I immediately started strategizing how to best utilize the funds, eager to make the most of this opportunity. The immense joy of receiving the transfer was a turning point for me, and I was determined to use it wisely to create a better future for myself and my family.

The biggest difference in my daily life is the newfound peace of mind I have since a heavy burden was lifted from my shoulders. Thanks to the financial aid I received, I was able to promptly pay off a long-standing debt that had been weighing on me. Moreover, our household now has an abundant supply of food, in stark contrast to before when we struggled to make ends meet. I am extremely grateful for the support, as it has greatly improved our overall quality of life.

After receiving my first transfer from GiveDirectly, I decided to invest in building materials for a new house. The house I was living in was old and had a leaking roof, but I had been unable to afford to build a new one due to financial constraints, especially with the education expenses of my nine children (unfortunately, one had passed away). As a farmer, the $200 I spent on building materials was a significant investment toward improving our living conditions. Additionally, I used $50 to pay off a debt, $30 to enroll in a medical scheme, and $80 on purchasing foodstuffs. I also managed to save $80 from the transfer. The support I received from GiveDirectly has had a remarkable impact on my life, transforming it in ways that I never imagined were possible. The ability to invest in a new home, pay off debt, and provide for my family's healthcare needs has been a significant relief. I am filled with gratitude for the support and the positive impact it has had on my life.