"Unconditional cash transfer is so good. It has enabled me achieve my life dreams." (Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)

"Recently, life has become very difficult because of the high cost of living. This has made my life hard since it is difficult to afford basic needs such as food. I go through a lot of stress especially when I'm unable to purchase food for my family." (Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)

"Receiving that second unconditional cash transfer was a true blessing for me. First and foremost, I used a significant portion, around $180, to purchase iron sheets and nails and cover the labor charges. My aim was to complete the construction of my house, a project I had started but was forced to halt due to financial constraints. I had big plans. I wanted to add another room to my home, as the current single room was far too small to comfortably house my family of four. This extra space would not only provide us with a more comfortable living arrangement but also a sense of privacy that we had longed for. After that, I used a portion of the funds to pay a school fee of $30 for my daughter, who is in the lower classes. The relief on her face and the happiness she now carries into her classroom, free from the distractions of unpaid fees, are priceless gifts. It warms my heart to know that she's focusing on her studies, hoping for better grades and a brighter future. Also, the cash transfers came to the rescue when my main source of income, my motorcycle, broke down a few weeks ago. With nearly $100, I managed to purchase the necessary spare parts to get it running again. My husband operates it, and thanks to this repair, our income is back on track. The feeling of self-reliance and security it brought is beyond words. I finally bought some much-needed food with the rest of the money, ensuring that we had enough to sustain us in the coming months."

"I recently made a significant decision with my recent unconditional cash transfer: I used the entire amount, which was $450, to purchase a secondhand motorcycle. This choice might seem unusual to some, but it was a strategic move to improve my livelihood. I had been working for a friend, and my daily earnings were around $3, barely enough to cover my basic needs. Life was a constant struggle, and I felt that I was stuck in a cycle of financial hardship. However, with this motorcycle, my situation has changed. The motorcycle has opened up new opportunities for me. I now earn close to $5 a day, thanks to the increased mobility it provides. It might not sound like a significant leap, but for someone like me who lives alone and aspires to start my own family soon, this extra income is life-changing. With the motorcycle, I can take on more work, expand my business prospects, and secure a more stable future for my family-to-be. It's a testament to how a small, well-thought-out investment can have a profound impact on one's life, and I'm excited to see where this new chapter takes me." (Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)

"When I received my transfer, I was faced with a series of financial responsibilities that had been long overdue. With careful planning, I distributed the funds to address these pressing needs. A significant portion, $150, went towards settling my motorcycle debt, a burden that had weighed on my shoulders. This was a crucial step in regaining financial stability and peace of mind. Another priority was my wife, Bahati, who needed $250 for a necessary medical checkup and medication. Her health was of utmost importance, and I was relieved to be able to provide for her care. Additionally, I spent $60 towards the purchase of land, a significant investment that held promise for our family's future. I also contributed $40 to a Merry Go Round chama, a form of collective savings that can provide a safety net during times of need. The remaining funds were used to purchase household food, ensuring that our family had sustenance on the table. We depend on my mechanic job as our primary source of income, and financial constraints have hindered my ability to accomplish these important tasks for a while. I am elated to say that my life has been uplifted by these transfers. They have not only provided relief from financial constraints but have also opened doors to a more secure and promising future for my family."

"My family of seven relies on my earnings from the Bodaboda business and my income as a pastor,which is somewhat limited. When the transfers finally came through, it was a moment of both relief and excitement. I knew exactly where my priorities lay, and I acted accordingly. The education of my son in college was paramount, so I dedicated a significant portion, $289, to cover his school fees. Ensuring he had the opportunity to pursue his studies without financial worry was a weight off my shoulders. With the remaining funds, I turned my attention to school shopping. Investing in my children's education does not stop at fees; providing them with the necessary supplies and resources is equally important. This allocation was an investment in their future, and it brought me a sense of fulfillment. The weight of supporting a family is substantial, but the transfers have lightened this burden significantly. I find peace in knowing that the biggest concern, ensuring my son's college education, has been addressed. The path ahead feels a little smoother, and with hard work and faith, I am confident we will continue to progress." (Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)

"I used $150 from my last transfer of $450 to purchase cement that was meant to improve my house by cementing the floor. I also used another $100 to purchase iron sheets and other building materials for my newly constructed store. The remaining amout of $200 was ised to erect gathers in my house and to buy food for my family as well. I am so impressed and delighted about the water tank that I bought with the hep of GiveDirectly transfers. This has seen me have enough water in my compound unlike before when I would have to rely on a motorcycle to get clean drinking water in my compound. I could not travel for long distances in search of clean drinking water because of my old age. I am extremely happy that I am no longer prone to waterborne diseaseses that would come about as a result of using insafe water for local household consumption. Once I get enough money, I will be able to use the money to cement the floor of my house to make it more comfortable and easier to maintain."

"Receiving the transfers was a turning point in my life, allowing me to address long-standing needs and aspirations. I had already built a 5-room brick-walled house, but it remained incomplete. With the support of GiveDirectly, I made some strategic choices that have had a significant impact on my family's well-being. I spent $220 on purchasing iron sheets, an investment that brought us closer to completing our house and providing a comfortable home for my family of nine. This improvement offered not only shelter but also a sense of security and stability. I also spent $150 on a second-hand motorcycle for my transportation to work. I am employed at a CDF office in Ganze, and with the motorcycle, I have the freedom to efficiently commute to my workplace. This has allowed me to always be there for my family, ensuring their needs are met and creating a stronger bond with them. Additionally,I paid $40 in school fees for my children. This investment in their education was a top priority, as it lays the foundation for a brighter future for our family. I saved the remaining funds for emergencies, providing a safety net for unexpected challenges that life may bring. This financial prudence reflects my commitment to securing my family's future, and I am glad for the transfers."

"I have a goal to build a new two-room house. Right now, my wife, six children, and I all share a cramped two-room space. As the kids grow, they need separate rooms for boys and girls, which our current house cannot provide. It is also a challenge when we have guests because there is no separate space for them. Having another two-room house would ensure everyone has enough space. The children could stay in the current structure, while my wife and visitors could use the new one. To do this, I estimated that I would need at least $600 for a mud-walled house with an iron sheet roof and concrete skirting. Depending on my motorcycle taxi business might make it a challenge to get that money all at once, especially with rising fuel prices and fewer customers due to higher prices. However, I believe that with the cash transfers and my income combined, I can make this happen." (Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)

"I have a plan to save up enough money to buy more chickens. Once I expand my poultry, I can sell them and work towards acquiring a new motorcycle. Currently, I operate on commission, but owning my own motorcycle is a goal I'm eager to achieve. I am determined to save both from my business earnings and transfers to turn this dream into reality."