"This year, my goal is to expand my goat herd, as goats have proven to be a valuable asset in my village. Additionally, I plan to invest in poultry farming since chickens have a ready market and can provide a financial safety net in the future. To achieve this, I intend to save diligently from my upcoming transfers to increase my goat numbers, which I can later sell for profit. I am deeply grateful for the financial assistance I have received, which has helped me support my family. With continued support from these transfers and by joining a savings group to facilitate the purchase of goats and investment in poultry farming, I am optimistic about achieving my goals and securing a stable financial future. Furthermore, while focusing on these projects, I am committed to ensuring my children receive a proper education by consistently paying their school fees on time."

"I am a widow with five children, and together, we rely on charcoal burning to meet our daily needs. When I received the last three transfers, I saw an opportunity to secure a better future for my family. The first thing I did was invest $20 in a small goat. This goat is more than just an animal; it is a step toward building a sustainable source of income for us. I also used $20 to buy four chickens, knowing that poultry farming will provide eggs for us to eat and sell, adding to our earnings. These investments are small, but they hold great promise for the future. After securing these investments, I saved $30 in a local savings group. This will give me access to financial support when I need it, whether it’s for school fees, emergencies, or expanding my small farming efforts. Finally, I spent $32 on food to ensure my children had enough to eat. Taking care of their immediate needs is as important as planning for tomorrow."

"I am building a two-roomed house because my current one has developed holes in the roof, and the walls are very weak. With my most recent transfer, I spent $34 to purchase a lorry of building stones in preparation for construction. I also saved $20 in a *chama* with the intention of using these savings in the future to buy more building materials. Additionally, I bought a chicken for $9 to boost my poultry project and used $4 to purchase food for my family. I also paid $25 towards my son's college fees to prevent him from being sent home due to fee arrears. Lastly, I bought a goat for $20 as part of my investment plan, knowing that the transfers are nearing their end. I want to ensure I have sustainable investments to support me in the future."

"I have started saving part of my transfer by investing in livestock farming. This is because our transfers are nearing their end, and I want to have an investment that can support me in the future, especially with paying my college fees. With my most recent transfer, I used $40 to buy two goats as a future investment. I also spent $36 on food for my family, as we were running out of supplies. Additionally, I bought one chicken for $20 to boost my poultry project, which is part of my long-term financial plan. Finally, I saved $20 towards paying my college fees. I am grateful to GiveDirectly for their financial support."

"I am currently in college pursuing a certificate course in Cosmetology. As I continue pursuing my studies with the goal of completing my course in 2026, I am steadfast in my determination to see this journey through. My plan is to use a portion of my transfers to pay for my school fees, ensuring I remain on track to achieve my dream. Once I graduate, my vision is to open a vibrant cosmetics store where I will sell beauty products and provide professional services. This store will be my source of income, a platform to further enhance my skills, and a stepping stone to building a fulfilling career. I am eager to create a space that reflects my passion and allows me to share it with others. Alongside my studies, I plan to invest in a small poultry venture by using another portion of my transfers to purchase chickens. My hope is that they will multiply, increasing both in number and value. The proceeds from selling them will serve as an additional source of income to support my education and future goals. I am filled with hope for a brighter future. Each step I take brings me closer to creating a life filled with opportunity, growth, and purpose. I am deeply grateful for the support that has made all this possible, and I am ready to make the most of it."

"In the coming year, I plan to start a video business where people can gather to watch football. I learned the necessary skills from a friend and now have experience. I’ve already secured a business premise for this venture, but I still need to buy the equipment, finish some renovations, and add benches for seating. I’ve been doing casual jobs, which are ending soon, and I was able to use part of that income to renovate some areas, though some work remains to be completed over the next two months. I haven’t yet done a full cost estimate for the project setup though I am planning to do so very soon. Additionally, I’d like to expand goats rearing project as I already have some through the transfers, and to start purchasing chickens as part of my second business plan. I currently have 19 goats but haven’t yet started buying chickens. Once I successfully implement these two ideas, I’m confident that I’ll achieve financial stability to support my family even after the transfers end."

"I used my recent transfer to buy $30 worth of food for my family. Since we’re experiencing drought, any income we get goes mainly toward food and water, as these are our top priorities. I also have two school-going children, so I purchased a few clothes and a pair of shoes for each of them, totaling $15. Additionally, I spent $4 on getting my hair done to look presentable. We have a savings group, so I contributed $10 to it. I also bought two chickens for $10 to add to my poultry project. With the remaining funds, I purchased one goat for $15 and used the last $5 to pay off part of a loan I took to buy a phone on installment."

"In the coming year and beyond, I want to diversify my investment by expanding my livestock. Right now, I have over 50 chickens, and my goal is to sell them as they grow in numbers to buy more livestock. I already have seven goats and two cows, but I aim to add even more to ensure my family's future is secure. Investing in livestock will give me a stable source of income and provide a safety net for my family. This plan will help us thrive in the long term, giving me peace of mind about our future."

"The biggest differences since receiving cash from GiveDirectly have been in my comfort, independence, and security. Firstly, having a comfortable bed and mattress has made a world of difference. Before, I was sleeping on an uncomfortable makeshift bed, but now I look forward to bedtime each night, knowing I’ll wake up feeling happy and well-rested. This simple change has improved my overall well-being and mood each day. Secondly, having enough food at home has given me a sense of independence. As an elderly person, it’s difficult for me to go out and earn money. Now, I don’t have to rely as heavily on my children for food, which has brought me peace of mind. Lastly, strengthening my fence has enhanced the security of my home and my small poultry. I now feel safer, knowing my chickens are protected and that my home is secure. Thanks to GiveDirectly, I am happier, more self-reliant, and feel safer each day."

"I am unable to take on any job that demands my full attention because I need to care for my sick child. My child has epilepsy, and it’s important for me to be present. Consequently, I spend most of my time on childcare. I want to establish a business that I can manage from home, which will help me balance my household duties while allowing me to focus on my child. I've considered starting a chicken farming business. Additionally, I plan to use part of my funds to purchase more goats. My aim is to raise about 10 breeding goats, and along with the chickens, this will create a source of income for me. Once these projects are up and running, I will feel less stressed, even when my income ends, as I will have an investment to depend on. If I encounter financial difficulties, I can sell some of my livestock to generate money for my support instead of relying on relatives."