How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
In the coming year and beyond, my aspiration is to enhance my farming practices. Given the accessibility of water resources and the existing irrigation equipment, I aim to achieve a more bountiful harvest by the season's end. This endeavor is driven by a desire to fulfill the diverse needs of my family of eight, ensuring an ample supply of essentials, and securing the means to cover my children's school fees. The prospect of an improved yield holds significance not only for sustenance but also for the overall well-being and educational pursuits of my family.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
The impact of GiveDirectly's work is truly remarkable. The positive changes brought about by their support are evident, underscoring the crucial role of support. Before receiving this money, I was facing significant challenges, but the financial support I received enabled me to ensure my family's well-being by providing them with nutritious meals. This support has not only alleviated my struggles but also empowered me to cultivate and sell vegetables, further enhancing our economic stability. The transformative effect of GiveDirectly's money is profound, fostering a sense of security and the ability to fulfill my children's desires. While the organization excels in providing direct financial aid that addresses immediate needs, there could be additional avenues for support, such as guidance on sustainable income-generating activities, to ensure long-term empowerment and resilience within the communities they serve.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Upon receiving my second transfer, we were eager to enhance our farming activities, especially with the piece of land we own next to the river. We had previously invested in a generator to pump water for irrigation, but we were short on pipes. Thanks to GiveDirectly, we were able to allocate $40 for pipes, $11 for five liters of generator fuel, and $25 for tomato seeds, which are currently thriving in the nursery bed. I also invested $36 in acquiring additional farming equipment, including a knapsack sprayer, slasher, file, and gumboots. The farm is flourishing, and I am optimistic about a bountiful harvest by the end of the season. Moreover, I settled a $25 debt I owed to a neighbor for farm inputs. Additionally, I used $95 for essential household goods, such as sugar, tea leaves, wheat flour, cooking oil, and a sack of maize, catering to my family of 8. To transport these items from town to my home, I incurred a $26 cost. Furthermore, I contributed $100 to cover the surveyor's cost for subdividing our land and saved the remainder to manage the tomato nursery bed until transplantation to the farm. Overall, the support from GiveDirectly has not only empowered our farming endeavors but also allowed us to address crucial needs within our family and community. I am truly grateful for the positive impact on our lives.