I have a deep sense of commitment to securing a better future through education for three my children. For the coming year and beyond, my main focus is to ensure that their school fees are paid on time, allowing them to concentrate fully on their studies without any interruptions. To achieve this, I utilize the third transfer to invest in three goats, adding to the few I already have. Goats do well in our region, and their quick reproduction makes them a promising asset, as I plan to sell them for additional income. Furthermore, part of the transfer will also be allocated to paying a portion of the school fees. I firmly believe that by providing them with the best possible education, they will be equipped to support me in the future, especially when they secure employment. This investment in their education represents a long-term strategy for securing a brighter and more sustainable future for both them and myself.

In my perspective, GD has truly excelled by providing us with unconditional cash transfers. This generous support has granted us the flexibility to address our diverse needs. I am particularly grateful that, with the assistance of the transfer, I have acquired a water tank, alleviating the constant worry about this vital resource. Thank you, GD, for making a significant impact and offering us the means to improve our lives.

The water scarcity in our community is a significant challenge, and this has been made worse by periodic droughts that dry up the rivers that should provide us with water. This usually compels us to purchase water at a higher cost of $0.5 for a 20-litre jerrican, straining our limited finances, particularly since our primary income comes from selling goats, which rely on water and green pastures. To address this ongoing issue, I made a decisive investment in a long-term solution. I allocated $350 from the transfer to buy a 5,000-liter water tank and an additional $50 to ensure its sturdy support with ridges and a concrete slab. Witnessing the tank successfully harvest water last month brought a profound sense of relief, easing the persistent stress of securing water, especially during the initial three months of the year, as it is usually a dry season. In the event of water depletion, the option to refill the tank using a water bowser for a more affordable cost of $25 provides reassurance. This water tank offers a sustainable solution, providing comfort and security for my family in the face of unpredictable circumstances. Furthermore, I utilized the remaining funds to purchase a sack of dry maize for my family of four. This became necessary due to our poor harvest this year, influenced by the harsh, dry weather we experienced.

Around 4 pm, I was at home, having a late lunch when the message came in. The happiness that swept over me was undeniable. I had put so much effort into farming, but the harsh reality of drought meant we didn't harvest anything. It was a source of distress, and the message couldn't have come at a better time than this. In that moment, the first thought that crossed my mind was food. The reassurance that I could now address the pressing need for sustenance was overwhelming. The support had arrived at a crucial juncture, turning a challenging situation into a moment of hope and gratitude.

The transformative impact of the assistance from GiveDirectly is palpable, particularly in our ability to address pressing needs. We have successfully paid school fees, ensuring that educational pursuits continue unhindered. This has been a source of immense relief, especially given our advanced age, which limits our capacity to engage in casual employment for additional income. Moreover, the funds received have significantly alleviated concerns related to daily sustenance. This relief from the financial burden and the improved quality of life are tangible outcomes of the support provided. The impact is genuinely transformative, offering us a respite from the challenges associated with our age and limited economic opportunities

The support from GiveDirectly has eased the financial strain associated with my daughter's education. I promptly paid $50 towards her secondary school fees, ensuring she can continue her education without disruptions. Previously, we relied heavily on income from Kenya Seed farming, but the delays in payment and the unpredictability of the weather made it a challenging source. The assistance has also allowed me to address another crucial aspect of ensuring an ample food supply for my family. With $120, I managed to purchase essential food items, providing sustenance and stability in our daily lives. Additionally, upon receiving news of anticipated rains, I invested $30 in cultivating beans, leveraging the favorable weather conditions for a potential harvest. I'm grateful for the flexibility and impact that GiveDirectly has afforded me, enabling me to prioritize both education and food security. This support has undeniably improved our immediate circumstances and positioned us more resiliently for the future.