"I BOUGHT LAND BECAUSE I NEVER HAD ANY WHERE TO GROW CROPS FROM."

"Our savings group will be distributing the saved money in February, I have saved for a while now and I had a number of things in mind that I hoped I will achieve using this savings. I have wanted to learn driving, I have a friend who works in the city as a driver and he is usually getting jobs so regularly. I also want to be able to get high paying jobs like he does and so I hope to achieve this by undertaking a driving course. I am also an animal rearer, I would want to add more animals, I have 40 chicken and 7 goats, I had10 goats but I sold 3 due to emergencies. I want to increase the number of this animals as well as add more types of animals to my small farm. I would also want to set up grocery stall which can earn an income. I may not achieve this in succession but this are the things I hope to achieve using my transfers."

"As I said I have a dream of putting up a business selling daily use retail items. My target is to have $500 to start the business and I have so far $210 and still saving towards my goal. My estimate is that I will be able to begin the business next year. I had always wanted to go to college but the lose of my father in 2015 leaving my mother a single mother with four children. She is a farmer and hence never made much to have enough to take us through college. I also married but I live with my wife in my mothers house which I would want to change. I hope through this business I will afford money to go study and become a plumber as well as put up a house for me and my wife."

"GiveDirectly has truly made a positive impact by providing unconditional cash support without any strings attached. During the sensitization meeting, we gained valuable insights into Mpesa comprehension and security measures, enhancing our ability to safeguard the funds we received. The information shared was instrumental in ensuring the responsible handling of the money. Thus far, I haven't observed any aspects that require correction or improvement. The initiative has not only delivered financial assistance but also equipped us with knowledge, contributing to a more secure and informed community."

"In the coming years, my main goal is to start a poultry farm. This venture holds the potential to fulfill my daily needs, especially for food. Also, by having a sustainable source of income through the poultry farm, I hope to avoid selling goats. Keeping the goats will allow me to build up resources that can be used to pay for the school fees of my children. This plan represents a thoughtful approach to ensuring both immediate and future needs are met, creating a more stable and secure future for my family."

"GiveDirectly has made a significant impact on us and our community. Many people, including myself, often express gratitude, saying that without GiveDirectly, they wouldn't have been able to achieve important milestones like buying a cow, educating a child, or building a house. The support provided by GiveDirectly is highly appreciated, and it has become a source of positive change in our lives. The sentiment in the community is that GiveDirectly is doing exceptionally well. Their assistance has not only transformed individual lives but has also contributed to the overall well-being of the community. The ability to acquire a cow, educate children, or build a house signifies the tangible and positive outcomes of GiveDirectly's programs. The impact is clear, and the community acknowledges and celebrates the positive changes facilitated by GiveDirectly's support."

"This year, my main goal is to embark on maize farming and start a livestock-keeping business. By doing so, I aim to ensure that I can adequately meet the needs of my family. The income generated from these ventures will not only provide for our daily necessities but also allow me to save some money for the future. Accomplishing these goals would fill my heart and my family with happiness and satisfaction, knowing that we are securing our livelihood and working towards a more stable and prosperous future."

"Recently, I received $450 from GiveDirectly, and I decided to use $300 of it to build a new house. Previously, I lived in a makeshift dwelling, and this investment significantly improved my living conditions. Another $100 was allocated to tapping water. Before, I used to travel 4 kilometers to fetch water, but now having it at home is a great convenience. The availability of water will serve two purposes. Firstly, it will be used for my livestock, ensuring their well-being. Secondly, I plan to utilize the water to irrigate fruits such as avocado and bananas, which thrive in our region. This not only enhances our home use but also opens up opportunities for commercial purposes. The investment in housing and water infrastructure is a significant step towards a more comfortable and sustainable lifestyle for me and my family."

"Upon receiving my most recent transfers of $450 from GiveDirectly, I prioritized investing in the education of my children. With three of them currently in high school, I used $450 to cover their school fees. Education holds immense value for me, and I firmly believe it is a sustainable investment in their future. Recognizing the importance of providing my children with educational opportunities, I directed the funds towards ensuring they have access to quality schooling. This decision aligns with my belief that education is a key factor in shaping their lives and future prospects. By investing in their education, I am not only securing their individual growth but also contributing to the overall well-being and sustainability of our family."

"GiveDirectly is doing well in allowing individuals to make their own decisions about how to use the funds they receive. The flexibility provided empowers recipients to address their unique needs and priorities. Personally, I find this approach effective and respectful, recognizing the diverse circumstances and goals of those receiving support. As for recommendations, I have none to offer. I appreciate the autonomy GiveDirectly provides, allowing each person to determine the best use of the funds based on their specific circumstances. This approach fosters a sense of responsibility and self-determination, ultimately contributing to the success of the program."