GDLive Newsfeed
We check in with people at each stage of the cash transfer process to see how things are going. Take a look at some of their stories as they appear here in real-time. Learn more about how recipients opt in to share their stories.
Stages:
 
Enrollment
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Transfers
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Completed
Newsfeed > Kadzitu's Profile
Kadzitu's family
Kadzitu
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Other
workCampaign
Kenya Basic Income
Upcoming Stage
Next Payment
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Follow to be updated on Kadzitu's next check-in.
 
14th Payment
Transfer Amount
3470 KES ($23 USD)
access_time 3 months ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
My dwelling is in a state of disrepair, with the iron roofing extensively rusted and riddled with numerous holes, allowing rainwater to seep through during downpours. My objective is to accumulate sufficient funds to procure new iron sheets and overhaul the aging roof. The financial assistance provided through transfers fills me with gratitude, as it brings tangible improvement to my life, despite my advanced age preventing me from working independently.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
For my two children currently attending primary school, I covered their school fees, ensuring their uninterrupted education. The $10 fee payment not only secures their schooling but also alleviates the fear of being sent home due to outstanding debts. Additionally, I invested $24 in acquiring a small goat, viewing it as a future asset. Anticipating its multiplication, I plan to sell some offspring to meet my needs. As an elderly individual unable to work, I rely heavily on financial support from my son, who engages in sporadic construction jobs. The weight on my son's shoulders is substantial, making the $68 spent on food purchases a significant relief for me. I am genuinely appreciative of the financial transfers, which have greatly aided in supporting my family's well-being.
 
10th Payment
Transfer Amount
3470 KES ($24 USD)
access_time 9 months ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
In my advanced years, I faced significant challenges in affording even a single meal, a situation that has been transformed by the arrival of these transfers. Presently, I have the means to embrace a well-rounded and nutritionally balanced diet as recommended by my doctor. The state of my health had been deteriorating, primarily due to my inability to access proper nutrition, which left me feeling weakened. I am genuinely content with the current state of affairs, as the transfers have granted me the ability to consistently consume a balanced diet and have eliminated the obstacles I once encountered in seeking medical treatment. The burden of medical expenses has been alleviated, and I can now manage these costs without difficulty. My primary focus revolves around utilizing these funds for two essential purposes: prioritizing my healthcare needs and nourishing my body to regain strength and well-being. In my advanced age, good health stands as my utmost aspiration and requirement.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
The collapse of one of the walls of my house prompted me to use $20 from my recent transfers to procure building poles for renovation. This decision has brought me a profound sense of relief, as my dwelling is now stable, having addressed its prior structural weaknesses. Alongside the house renovation, I also invested $25 in acquiring a goat and purchased three chickens that I am currently raising. My objective has consistently been to maintain tangible living assets that can serve as a safety net during times of financial strain. The ownership of these goats and chickens provides me with a reassuring level of security, as they can be readily sold to generate funds if necessary. Currently, I possess two goats, and I aspire to facilitate their reproduction, eventually relying on them to assist me in fulfilling my financial responsibilities. Also, given my advanced age, my health demands regular medical attention and a balanced diet. I'm sincerely appreciative of the fact that these transfers have not only allowed me to cover my medical expenses but also enabled me to maintain a nourishing dietary routine.
 
6th Payment
Transfer Amount
3470 KES ($26 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
My grass touched mud house is in a dilapidated condition and I fear that the house may collapse very soon. The building poles supporting the house are very weak hence major cracks have developed on the walls. This is a major safety concern for me as I feel that the housing collapses during the night as I sleep soundly. I would love to build a new Strong house. To do so I require some stones, cement sand, iron sheets and some nails. I will be very happy and grateful once the house is ready and I can move in to live in my new house.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
My health has deteriorated in the past few months and have been unable to work. I fully depend on my wife who works as a casual laborer selling charcoal to earn a living. The charcoal selling business does not earn her much so she struggles a lot to take care of the needs of the family. I wish I could help in taking care of the family but I have been having persistent coughs and unending chest pains which prevent me from undertaking labor-intensive jobs. Upon receiving my money transfers I spent $10 to pay hospital bills after seeing a doctor Who prescribed medication that will improve my health. I then spent the remaining $24 on buying food for the family. Included were fresh fruits and vegetables that were essential in boosting my immunity. I am grateful that my health has improved and my family never missed meals because there was plenty of it.
 
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
3470 KES
access_time over 1 year ago
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In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
I'm honestly quite grateful for the fact that I have been receiving so far from the organization. This is because due to my age I can hardly look after myself and most times I have to rely on my children to cater for my day today needs. Fortunately, this is not the case anymore because with this money that I receive, I too can look after myself and prioritize on what I need in my house.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I was thrilled with so much excitement upon realizing that I had received the transfers especially because at the time I really needed the finances. The biggest challenge at the time was pertaining to nourishment and so the minute I got the chance to withdraw the transaction I ensure to sorry out immediately. I proceeded to spend KES 2,400 in purchasing a bag of maize flour which contained a dozen packets. Afterwards I went ahead to spend the remaining balance of KES 1,000 by purchasing a kilogram of sugar, groceries, two packets of wheat flour and six kilograms of beans.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
1200 KES
access_time over 1 year ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I was relaxing in my home and talking to my beloved wife. It was uncomfortable to sit outside because the blazing sun was directly above our heads. I got a text message, so I gave my wife my phone so she could read it. She gladly let me know that I had received my first transfer, and she did so with a smile on her face. I was so happy that I started crying, and my heart was overflowing with happiness.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
I'm so happy the unconditional transfers allowed me to get my first livestock. I've had this dream for a very long time, but due to financial constraints, it was not realized. My purchase of the goat marked the start of my wealth-building through livestock ownership.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Selling charcoal is how I make a living. My sole primary source of income, farming, was taken away from me when the drought started. Every time I run out of money and I am unable to make any sales, like selling the charcoal, I occasionally rely on my son for financial support. My son works as a motorcycle rider and makes a pittance. His income is insufficient for him to meet both his personal needs and mine. I was so happy to receive my first transfer that I used some extra money from my wife's transfers to buy a goat for $25. Purchasing the goat was a wise move because it will soon start to multiply, increasing its population. I can sell some in an emergency and use the proceeds to deal with the problem that arises.
 
Enrolled
access_time almost 2 years ago
 
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money means a decent and a more spacious house for my family of five. I am planning to use KES 35,000 from the transfers to construct a decent two bedroom house for my family; one room for my grandchildren and the other room for myself. This will earn me the privacy I have always desired. I will use the balance to buy enough food for my family.
What is the happiest part of your day?
Whenever I get something to eat, I feel happy and thereafter, I sit with my grandchildren and make stories.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Endless sickness especially flu has denied me peace of mind for long. I have been under medication for long and my situation seems to be far from ending. This is the biggest challenge I am currently facing.