"I work as a Boda boda rider and a farmer, while my wife is currently on maternity leave, though under normal circumstances, we typically work together on the farm. We are blessed with three children. Upon receiving my transfer, I made strategic decisions on its use. I invested $185 in purchasing a cow to provide milk for my children. Specifically, I needed to buy a male cow for breeding purposes. Subsequently, I spent $45 to acquire maize, and to familiarize myself with technology, I purchased a smartphone worth $43. Additionally, I invested in a three-seater seat, spending $35, and dedicated $20 to planting beans. I am elated that the transfer enabled me to afford things that seemed financially challenging before."

"My objective is to acquire a cow and cover the school fees for my children in secondary school. I intend to achieve this goal by utilizing my third transfer. This was a challenge in the past due to financial constraints, but I am grateful for the opportunity to see progress and a brighter future ahead."

"Looking ahead to the coming year and beyond, my strategic focus is on expanding my investment in livestock. The rationale behind this decision stems from the financial strain caused by consistently purchasing packed milk from nearby shops. To alleviate this burden, I plan to invest in a cow, foreseeing it as a sustainable source for future milk production. Beyond personal consumption, the surplus milk could potentially be sold, providing a dual benefit of financial returns. Additionally, the prospect of breeding and selling the offspring presents an opportunity to generate income to cover various expenses, including school fees for my children and other essential bills. This investment in livestock not only addresses immediate financial challenges but also lays the foundation for a more self-sufficient and economically viable future."

"We have four cows, we depend on them as a family. They provide us with enough milk, it means we don't buy, hence cutting our budget. It's a joy milking and having tea during breakfast."

"Once I get more money I will purchase livestock, specifically goats and chickens. I prefer goats to cows because they are easy to maintain and, I can be able to look after them and also they can survive during dry seasons and they breed faster here. poultry rearing is also profitable since it needs less cost but yields maximum profit when they multiply. Ideally, I chose to perfect this because they have ready markets compared to other livestock keeping, and am sure this will help us in the future by reducing the cost of buying milk daily."

"The memory of receiving my transfer is etched vividly in my mind. It happened while I was heading home after tending to my cows. My grandson eagerly approached me, radiating happiness. When I halted to inquire about the cause of his excitement, he happily shared the news that the promised transfer from GiveDirectly had come through. The joy was overwhelming because, at that moment, I realized I could finally afford a comfortable place to rest and ensure an ample supply of food in the house, a luxury previously hindered by financial constraints."

"Investing in a sustainable future became my priority when I received my recent unconditional cash transfer. With $278, I purchased a dairy cow and two sheep. The choice of a cow was strategic; I saw it as an investment for my older years. As I grow older, having a steady source of income becomes increasingly crucial, and the cow will not only provide milk for personal use but also an opportunity to sell surplus to neighbors, contributing to my livelihood. Besides securing my financial future, I spent $47 on a new mattress. The relief from the old one, which caused nightly discomfort and hindered my daily activities due to pain, is immeasurable. A good night's sleep is now an achievable luxury, enhancing my overall well-being. With the remaining funds, I made investments aimed at improving the quality of life. A 2,500-liter tank, acquired for $12.5, means I can now harvest water, eliminating the need to trek for miles to fetch water from distant dams. This not only saves time but also ensures a more reliable and convenient water supply. As a widow relying on casual jobs earning $2.5 a day, these strategic investments bring a sense of stability to my life. With my newfound resources, I can envision a future where financial worries are alleviated and the daily struggles become more manageable. Living with my two grandchildren, these investments are not just for me but are steps toward creating a more secure and comfortable environment for the entire family."

"In my opinion, GiveDirectly has truly excelled by providing me with unconditional cash support. The impact on my life has been profound; I now own valuable assets, including cows and a motorcycle. The freedom to decide how to allocate the funds has allowed me to invest in income-generating ventures, significantly improving my financial standing. The acquisition of livestock and a motorbike not only represents tangible wealth but also opens up new opportunities for sustainable income. GiveDirectly's approach of trusting recipients to make decisions based on their unique needs has proven to be effective, empowering me to create a more secure and prosperous future for my family."

"I aspire to build a thriving livestock farm, encompassing cows, goats, and perhaps more. The dream of owning a sustainable livestock operation is rooted in my desire for self-sufficiency and financial stability. With careful planning and dedication, I aim to establish a diverse herd, not just as an investment but also as a means to support my family and community. The prospect of raising and nurturing these animals feels like a step towards a more secure and fulfilling future. By cultivating this vision, I hope to contribute to the agricultural landscape while creating a legacy that goes beyond mere livestock and embodies resilience and prosperity for generations to come."

"Investing in rental houses was a big step for our family's financial stability. Recently, I realized that our tenants did not have a dedicated pit latrine as they used the neighbors, so I used $200 to construct one for their convenience. It is important to ensure their comfort and well-being. Education is also a top priority for us, especially for my daughter in grade 8. I allocated $60 toward her schooling, wanting to provide the best opportunities for her future. Additionally, I spent $60 on topping up the purchase of our cow, hoping to possess it soon and provide food and income for the family of six, therefore assisting my husband, who is a soldier, in supporting the family. I also spent $11 to transport me to the hospital for delivery and $45 to purchase maize. With the rest of the funds, I made a conscious decision to save for emergencies. It is all about ensuring our family's well-being and laying the groundwork for a more secure future. I am grateful that the transfers have been of assistance."