In the coming years, I have a couple of wishes that I hope to turn into reality. First, I wish to start farming, though that depends a lot on the amount of rainfall we get. I see it as a potential way to support my family. I still want to continue with my kiosk business, ensuring its growth and success. This has been a source of income for me, and I hope it continues to thrive. I also aim to participate in a merry-go-round, which could provide additional financial stability. If I can achieve these goals, I would be extremely happy and grateful. It would make a significant positive impact on me and my family, providing us with the support we need.

I have nothing but positive things to say about GiveDirectly's programs. They have truly made a difference in my life, and I feel much better than before. What stands out is their excellent follow-up system, which has been instrumental in addressing a significant issue in our village. Before GiveDirectly, there was a high level of alcohol brewing in our community, posing a threat, especially for those of us who don't consume alcohol. However, thanks to GiveDirectly's thorough follow-ups, this issue has been contained. Their proactive approach has not only improved individual lives but has also positively impacted the overall well-being of our village. I am grateful for the positive changes they have brought about.

After receiving $450 from GiveDirectly, I carefully allocated the money to address various needs in my family. I used $200 to pay school fees for my child who is currently in Form Two. Since I started receiving transfers, she has been able to consistently attend school, leading to noticeable improvements in her grades. To boost my kiosk business, which I have been running for over ten years, I allocated $100. The income from the business has proven helpful in covering expenses like school shopping for all my children. Recognizing the need for a more comfortable living situation for my growing family, I used $21 to build a small house. With five kids, including two grown boys, providing them with a place to sleep and have privacy became a priority. Around Christmas time, I allocated $6 to celebrate the festive season. I bought new clothes and food for all my five kids, bringing joy and happiness to our family gathering. Lastly, I used $4 to ensure there was enough food for my family. This has significantly eased the previous struggles we faced in ensuring everyone had a meal. The impact of the GiveDirectly transfers has not only addressed immediate needs but has also contributed to the overall well-being and happiness of my family.

I have actively been part of a merry-go-round with 10 other members, each contributing $10 monthly. This informal yet effective savings plan ensures that every member receives $100 on a rotating monthly basis. Anticipating my turn in April next year, I have strategic plans for the funds. My goal is to invest a significant portion in expanding my agricultural operations. I aim to incorporate an additional 2-acre piece of currently idle land into my farming activities, specifically for planting maize. This expansion is not only geared towards boosting my income but also holds the potential to alleviate the financial burden of secondary school fees for my sons. The merry-go-round has proven to be a valuable financial tool, allowing me to pursue meaningful investments that contribute to both personal and familial prosperity.

In my perspective, GiveDirectly is performing admirably, significantly improving the living standards of many in our community. Previously, a considerable number of individuals struggled and relied solely on casual labor for sustenance. However, the cash support provided by GiveDirectly has empowered them to make strategic investment choices, effectively elevating their living conditions. The sensitization meetings conducted by GiveDirectly have played a crucial role, fostering responsible spending habits and leading to a notable reduction in misuse of funds. I am hopeful that the same effective approach will be applied in other villages, ensuring a positive impact on their communities as well.

Receiving the first transfer came at a crucial time when I had a significant debt for my children's school fees. With competing financial priorities, I deferred settling the fees but was relieved to clear the $120 arrears, $31 for the three pre-school children, and invested $28 in school uniforms with the second transfer. This ensured my children could complete the term without disruption. Additionally, I acquired 5 iron sheets for $66, intending to construct a new house for my two sons who had been sharing space with neighbors, hindering their study environment. I also bought a bed worth $38 for the extra room to provide a comfortable space for visitors. Allocating the remaining funds, I spent $70 on foodstuff, invested $22 in a 100-liter water tank, and dedicated $2 to toiletries. I incurred a $17 transport cost from the shopping center to my home, wisely saving the remaining amount for potential household emergencies. The support from GiveDirectly has not only relieved immediate financial burdens but also contributed to the well-being and education of my family.

While I was by the stream, taking a moment to refresh myself, I suddenly heard my phone vibrate with a message notification. Although I typically don't check my texts regularly, I had developed a habit of being attentive to my phone due to expecting some cash transfers. Curious, I paused to read the message and was delighted to discover that GiveDirectly had sent me some money. The rush of happiness was overwhelming, and I couldn't contain my joy. As soon as my husband returned home, I eagerly shared the news with him, and he too was filled with excitement. Without delay, we began discussing and planning how to make the most of this unexpected blessing.

The biggest difference in my daily life is the 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 that has amazingly transformed my life.

After receiving the transfer, I carefully considered how to spent the funds, and the most urgent need was to pay off my son's school fees arrears, which amounted to $54. This had been a difficult task previously, given our financial constraints, as I rely on selling vegetables at a retail shop while my husband does casual jobs to make a living. With five children to support, every expense requires careful planning. Once I had taken care of the school fees, I used $70 to clear a long-pending debt that had been hanging over our heads. Finally, with the remaining funds, I decided to invest in securing our basic needs. I purchased a sack of maize, along with other essential food items and clothing for the family. The best part is that I now have the opportunity to save some money for my children's future school fees. This financial support has brought immense relief and gratitude to our family.