In the coming years, I am determined to revive a dairy cow project that I once embarked on but unfortunately had to abandon due to the devastating effects of drought, which led to the loss of my cows from hunger. However, with the recent developments, especially having successfully fenced my land, I see a renewed opportunity to reestablish this project. I plan to utilize the land by planting grass and taking measures to preserve it to ensure a stable source of feed for the dairy cow, even during drought seasons. This strategic approach will safeguard the cow's well-being and allow me to benefit from consistent milk production. I aspire to use the proceeds from the milk to provide the best possible education for my child, who is soon to join school.

What I truly appreciated about GD was their commitment to fairness in the enrollment process. They did not discriminate based on factors like marital status, which often happens in other organizations. I am confident that if it were another program, I might have been excluded due to my separated status. This fair treatment made me feel valued and included. Moreover, the financial transfers provided by GD have been nothing short of life-changing. They have allowed us to embark on income-generating projects that hold the promise of lifting us out of poverty. Through these transfers, I have managed to accomplish things that once seemed impossible. Now, I am the proud owner of goats, and I have successfully fenced my land to ensure their safety.

As a single father responsible for my child since her mother left, I faced the challenging task of ensuring her basic needs were met. With no stable source of income and relying mainly on livestock rearing and small-scale farming for sustenance, this was not an easy feat. When I received the third transfer, I invested $200 in intensifying my livestock-rearing project by adding five goats to my existing herd of 12. Goats are known for their fast reproduction, and I believe they will serve as a valuable source of income in the future. Additionally, I used $75 to purchase one roll of chain-link fencing. This addition complements the rolls I had previously acquired, allowing me to secure my two acres of land. This will protect my crops and grass from wandering animals and ensure that my livestock have access to food during the dry season, which typically occurs at the beginning of the year. I also had a pending debt of $30 for a phone that I had acquired in installments, which I cleared, bringing me peace of mind. I also purchased $50 worth of food, ensuring that we had sustenance during the period. Furthermore, I used the remaining amount to invest in an extension of my house. This planned extension will create an extra room, and since my house is located near the road, it presents a potential opportunity for business of rent out the additional space to earn a living.

My main focus for the upcoming year is to enhance my living situation by expanding my current house into a larger one. Alongside this, I am determined to prioritize the education of my children. To turn this dream into reality, I have devised a plan. I intend to use my third transfer of funds and combine it with the profits generated from my sheep farming venture. With unwavering belief in my vision and a commitment to dedicated hard work, I am confident that I can achieve these goals. By channeling my efforts towards these aspirations, I hope to create a better and brighter future for my family.

GiveDirectly granted us absolute financial freedom with no conditions attached. The effects of their efforts have left a lasting impression throughout the entire village. I was truly amazed by GiveDirectly's well-executed operations, which were carried out with remarkable insight. The officers in charge of the census and registration process introduced the program with great effectiveness, providing us with thorough information. They made sure to seek our consent before enrolling us, and they genuinely valued our opinions by giving us ample time to express ourselves and treating our thoughts with utmost respect.

Farming serves as my main source of income. Several months ago, I went through a separation from my wife, and as a result, she left me with our child. When I received my recent transfer of funds, I made a deliberate decision to invest in sheep and goat rearing. The goal was to create an additional income stream that could be used for potential emergencies and future school fees for my children. To kick-start the sheep and goat project, I spent $240. This investment was aimed at ensuring a stable and secure financial future for my family. Alongside that, I also used $75 to purchase barbed wire to expand and improve my house, while $57 went towards acquiring iron sheets for the same purpose. Finally, with the remaining amount, I bought essential food supplies for our daily needs. Before this opportunity, such expenses were out of reach for me due to financial constraints. The fact that I managed to achieve this goal within a relatively short period fills me with immense joy and satisfaction. Now, I feel more secure in my ability to provide for my family and take care of their needs, which brings a sense of relief and happiness.

While working on a neighbor's farm in the late afternoon, my employer informed me that he had received his transfer from GD. Excited, I immediately asked him to lend me his phone so I could check if I had received mine as well since my phone was out of power. I inserted my SIM card into his phone and upon restarting it, a message confirming the transfer popped up. I was overwhelmed with happiness, realizing that this opportunity would allow me to possess what I previously did not have.

Since I began receiving the transfers, my life has undergone significant changes. Instead of relying on casual work for income, I now have the means to fulfill my basic needs. As a result, I have shifted my focus towards working on my land and taking care of my cattle. By doing so, I hope to improve my agricultural productivity and increase my overall income. The transfers have provided me with the freedom to prioritize my own work and invest in my own resources, leading to long-term financial independence and sustainability.

Upon receiving the transfer, I immediately made the decision to use a portion of it to seek medical attention for my elderly mother, who has been struggling with illness. Approximately half of the first transfer went towards covering the costs of her medication. In addition, I used $30 to purchase essential household items that were lacking in our home, such as utensils and a solar light. Recognizing the need to take care of myself as well, I used $40 to acquire two new pairs of trousers for my wardrobe. Lastly, I utilized the remaining funds to ensure an ample food supply for myself.