My recent unconditional cash transfer was truly a blessing. I decided to prioritize my well-being and comfort, so I spent part of it on buying a new bed and mattress, totaling $130. For years, I had been sleeping on traditional rope beds, enduring countless sleepless nights and often waking up with back pain, which made it difficult to continue working. This upgrade to a proper bed and mattress has already made a world of difference in the quality of my sleep and my overall health. In addition, I used $100 of the funds to purchase spare parts for my motorcycle, which had been sitting broken for a while. This motorcycle is my main source of income, and being an elderly widow, I rely on it to support myself as my children have their own families to care for. The ability to repair it has brought a significant positive change to my life. I also invested in two goats, totaling $110, which will serve as valuable assets. I am confident that soon I'll have a thriving herd that will not only provide sustenance but also help me address any unexpected financial challenges. Furthermore, I gave $50 to my granddaughter, who is in college. She had been out of school for a while due to a lack of tuition fees, and I had no idea when she would be able to return. This cash transfer allowed me to bring her a step closer to her dreams. With the remaining amount, I made sure that my family of three never had to go to bed with empty stomachs again, securing our daily sustenance.

The unconditional money they provided afforded me a newfound freedom that I'd never experienced before. With this financial support, I was able to invest in modern and comfortable bedding, bringing a sense of luxury and comfort to my daily life. Furthermore, I used a portion of the funds to invest in livestock, which has not only become a source of income but also a symbol of stability and self-sufficiency. GiveDirectly's approach has empowered me to make choices that have not only improved my living conditions but have also given me a sense of ownership and control over my life.

My primary focus is on the ongoing project of caring for my goats. I've invested time and effort into nurturing these animals, and I believe that with continued dedication and proper management, I can expand my goat herd significantly. Each day, I check on their well-being, ensuring they have ample food, clean water, and a safe environment. My hope is that over time, the number of goats in my care will multiply, not only providing me with a sustainable source of income but also contributing to the betterment of my family's livelihood.

Receiving the unconditional cash transfer from GiveDirectly was a life-changing moment for me. With the money, I decided to invest in the future by purchasing four high-breed goats for $180. It was a smart move, as these goats have already started reproducing, promising a steady source of income for my family. Along with securing our financial stability, I also prioritized my children's education. I used $60 to pay their school fees, ensuring they could continue their studies without interruption. Being a peasant farmer, I understood the importance of food security. So, I invested a portion of the cash transfer in buying a sack of maize. This decision brought a sense of relief and comfort, knowing that my family would have enough for a good period. However, the most significant change was the construction of a new house. My previous dwelling was small and congested, causing inconvenience whenever we had visitors. But now, with a spacious and welcoming home, I no longer have to rely on my neighbor's hospitality. I can comfortably offer a nice place for guests to sleep something that is providing me with peace of mind and a renewed sense of happiness.

Receiving the cash transfer from GiveDirectly was a turning point in my life. No longer bound by the chains of poverty, I seized the opportunity to invest in goat-keeping. With the newfound capital, I purchased a small herd of goats as an investment. The goats multiply rapidly so I am optimistic about having a bigger herd which I will convert into monetary value if the need arises. I was also able to construct a spacious house, a dream I had never thought possible. No longer cramped in a tiny shack, my family now enjoys the comfort and security of a proper home. GiveDirectly's support not only helped me to start an investment but also gave me the chance to create a better future for myself and my loved ones.

At around 3 pm while resting at home from grazing my livestock, I heard a message tone from my phone that rang twice rapidly. I asked my daughter who was next to me to read and interpret the information for me because I am illiterate. She informed me that I had received the initial promised $550. I could hardly believe it, I felt a rush of emotions overwhelm me, and at that moment, joy exploded from deep within my heart. I couldn't contain my happiness, and an ululation of pure delight escaped my lips, reverberating through the air. It was as if a heavy burden had been lifted, and a glimmer of hope shone brightly in my life. With that first transfer from GiveDirectly, I knew that a new chapter had begun, and my dreams of a better future suddenly seemed within reach. This reminded me that kindness and compassion still exist in this world.