My new goal is to start livestock rearing especially goats so that I may have a reliable source of livelihood for my family. Currently, we are depending on charcoal vending an activity that is low-paying, very tiresome, and has a lot of restrictions due to its environmental effects. This has brought so many challenges especially in providing for the family. I had wished to start goat rearing but I lacked the financial capacity. In addition, I am the only breadwinner for the family because my husband is old and can't work anymore.

In my opinion, sending direct cash to our mobile phones was the great thing that GiveDirectly did well. Furthermore, we were able to decide at our household level how we will use our transfer for the betterment of our life.

I spent KES 10,000 to construct a 3 roomed house for my family. This is because for many years since l I got married I have not been able to construct a nice house due to our poverty conditions. I was living in a small structure that can not even accommodate two beds. This has been frustrating because our kids were forced to be sheltered by our neighbors. I also bought proper beddings for KES 20,000 since we were using a tiny bed with sacks as bedding that were uncomfortable. Furthermore, I used KES 20,000 to clear the fees arrears for my kids who had huge balances that make them be frequently sent home. Lastly, we are experiencing food shortages in our area and I used the remaining amount to acquire sufficient food.

I was at home with my husband and our son who had been sent home due to school fees. I was busy doing my household chores like sweeping since I am a housewife. I had just completed making a call when I saw a Mpesa message on my phone. I gave my phone to my spouse who ascertained that I had received my transfers from GiveDirectly. I felt very happy about receiving my transfer since I had a lot of plans to accomplish with my transfer. It was a happy moment and everyone in my family celebrated receiving the aid.

The biggest difference in my daily life is that I am optimistic that I will be able to restore my dignity once I complete the construction of my house. The construction that is going on gives me hope that I will finally be living in a better shelter. In addition, I am able to meet the needs of my family easier after purchasing enough foodstuffs for my family.

I spent KES 40,000 to construct a decent and specious shelter for my family. I bought building poles, timber, and 33 iron sheets which are enough to build a 3 roomed house for my family. This is because the house I had earlier was very small to fully accommodate me, my co-wife, and the children. In addition, I was living in the same house with my grown-up daughters which was against our customs. Furthermore, I purchased a pair of school uniforms for each of my 4 kids who are still schooling as well as paying their fees school fee arrears of KES 10,000. I bought food sufficient food with the remaining amount.