The first I considered after receiving the transfers was nourishment for my family and I because drought had taken a toll on us and we barely had any food left in the house. I went ahead and bought six packet of maize flour for KES 720 and then used KES 250 as transportation fee for the person I sent to go fetch water for me in the neighbouring town since it was scarce in our area. Then I took part of the balance which is KES 750 and used it to buy three hens since I intended to begin poultry farming. I then went on and decided to purchase clothes for my two kids since they barely had anything presentable because most of their clothes were old and worn out and for that I used KES 1,200. Lastly I remained with KES 80 which I used to get sugar.

I spent my most recent transfer to buy two hens at KES 300 and a goat at KES 2000. I intend to raise them and later resell them when they are fully grown. Through this I shall get some additional money. Thanks to GiveDirrctly for its support.

GiveDirectly does well especially on the part where we are given cash directly. This is good because it will open up our minds to look beyond just buying food and put into good use the money into long-lasting projects. These projects once are up and running will change our life for the better.

With the current drought situation we are currently facing, everything is expensive and has made life very difficult. I currently do not have a job and I have a child who depends on me for everything. Water is very expensive and a jerrican retails at KSH 50. I have always depended on farming for my survival but for now, it is not the case. With no rain, everything we planted has dried out and we are left with nothing to depend on. When I received the transfer I spent KSH 1000 in starting a new business of selling mandazi just to cope with the situation and earn a living for myself. I also spent KSH 1800 buying food for my family. With no food on our farms, we depend on food bought from the very expensive shop. In addition to that, I spent KSH 200 buying water for my use at home.

I was at home making preparations for my business when I had the ping and vibrations of my phone. I went to check it and could not believe that I had received money from GiveDirectly. I was very happy to have gotten this money and I am forever grateful.

The biggest difference in my daily life is that I have a source of income which gives me a sense of security in that no matter how things get difficult I still have some money I can get. The thought of getting food without struggle is like a blessing.

During this drought season, we have been having a hard time meeting our basic needs. I came up with the idea of selling some food like mahamri to get a little income. With this money, I was able to invest in my business idea and start it. I spent the whole KES.1200 to start my business. I still cannot believe my dream has come to fruition. Thank you Give directly for this opportunity.