"I have been facing recurring eye issues and have been longing for specialized treatment, which comes with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, I am thankful for the financial assistance I received. Upon receiving my second disbursement, I promptly visited the hospital and underwent the necessary treatment. This would have posed a significant challenge if I had to rely solely on my own financial means. Moreover, I allocated a portion of the funds to purchase a solar panel for $160, a decision that has greatly improved my household. Beyond providing illumination, the solar panel has eliminated the need for me to pay for device charging. Living on my farm, I used to face frequent crop destruction by elephants due to the lack of security lights that would typically deter them. Since installing the solar panel, I strategically placed security lights, resulting in zero losses from my farm. I am now anticipating a bountiful harvest that will ensure an ample food supply for my household. In addition to these improvements, I managed to save the remaining funds. I am currently planning to invest in five goats, intending to breed them. As someone heavily reliant on subsistence farming and the production and sale of charcoal, I view owning goats as a significant investment. Their multiplication will not only enhance my financial stability but also provide a renewable source of income. I am optimistic that, as the goat population increases, I can easily sell them to meet my financial needs."

"With the first transfer, I prioritise $240 in building a two-bedroom house for my six daughters. It was disheartening to share a room with them and their father, and I wanted to give them the privacy they deserved. The joy in their eyes when they saw the metal sheets for the house made every penny worthwhile. As a farmer, I often took up casual work to supplement our income, earning an unpredictable $2 per day. My husband, a casual worker, could make $15 on a good week, but it was never enough to cover our family's needs. With $65, I purchased a sack of maize, addressing the issue of hunger that had been affecting their health. Another $20 went towards buying second-hand clothes for my children, saving them from the embarrassment of wearing the same outfits repeatedly. Finally, I invested $80 in two goats, hoping that their multiplication would serve as a source of financial security for our family's future. The unconditional cash transfer not only met our immediate needs but also allowed us to build a foundation for a better life."

"With a limited income from unpredictable casual jobs and the responsibility of being the sole provider for my household, life has become a constant struggle. My husband, who is elderly and suffers from chest problems, remains at home, relying on me to meet our daily needs. With the transfer of $450 from GiveDirectly, I spent $160 to address the food problem. I used $130 to construct a toilet, addressing a pressing issue that had forced us to resort to unsanitary practices in the bush. Additionally, I invested $84 in new furniture to enhance our comfort. Previously, we had been using traditional stools, but this upgrade has significantly improved our living space. Unfortunately, I fell ill and had to allocate $20 for medication to address both malaria and typhoid. Amidst these struggles, I prioritized my son's education by spending $5.5 on 11 school exercise books, ensuring he continued his studies with the necessary materials. Recognizing the importance of livestock in our livelihood, I spent $30 on veterinary drugs for our goats. Maintaining their health is crucial for our overall well-being and sustenance. Lastly, I used $20 for transportation. Despite the challenges, I remain determined to provide a better life for my younger son, grandchild, and ailing husband. The support received from GiveDirectly has been a lifesaver during these difficult times, and I am grateful for the assistance that has allowed us to address some of our most pressing needs."

"I bought some construction materials and some Agricultural inputs"

"My foremost goal is to fortify my financial independence by strategically investing in assets, specifically goats. Recognizing the impermanence of certain aid programs like GiveDirectly, I aim to secure a sustainable future for myself. By purchasing more goats, I envision building a valuable asset base that can generate income through breeding and sales. This strategic move is motivated by a desire to cease dependency on my children for financial support, ensuring that I have a tangible resource to fall back on. I believe that by making prudent investments, I can not only weather the uncertainties of external aid but also pave the way for a more self-reliant and secure future."

"My primary mission is clear: I am determined to secure additional funds to cover the education expenses of my three children. With two in secondary school and one in primary, the financial responsibility has become substantial. My aspirations extend beyond merely paying school fees; I aim to provide them with a quality education that will open doors to opportunities and a brighter future. Whether through finding additional income streams, exploring scholarship opportunities, or tapping into community resources, my commitment to their education is unwavering. I believe that investing in their learning today is an investment in their success tomorrow, and I am driven by the conviction that education is the key to breaking the cycle of limitations."

"My aspirations are centered around building a more secure and stable future for myself and my family. I am determined to start keeping livestock, particularly goats, as a means to have a financial safety net in case of any unforeseen economic challenges. The prospect of selling goats not only provides a source of income but also a sustainable and flexible asset. Additionally, a significant part of my focus will be directed towards completing the construction of my house, a project that holds both personal and familial significance. I believe that by combining these efforts, I can create a more resilient and comfortable life, ensuring financial stability and a secure home for those I care about."

"Lacking formal education and aspiring to be self-employed, my focus lies in agriculture. I possess two hectares of cassava awaiting harvest, ensuring a potential income exceeding $100. To enhance crop yields, I intend to implement furrow irrigation using connected water pipes, diminishing dependence on erratic rainfall. The direction ahead is evident – an independent venture in agriculture, nurturing both crops and opportunities for a prosperous future."

"My aspirations revolve around the continual expansion of my goat-selling business. Engaged in the practice of purchasing goats from the villages and subsequently selling them at marketplaces during market days, this venture has proven highly profitable. With the additional capital from recent transfers, I have augmented my investment, anticipating a corresponding increase in profits. The financial gains not only contribute to the well-being of my family but also facilitate the ongoing growth of the business through strategic reinvestment. As the primary breadwinner for my family i.e. my wife and two children, this business serves as our sole source of income. Witnessing the gratifying growth of my enterprise is particularly fulfilling, knowing that it not only sustains my family but also holds the potential for further expansion and success."

"I WAS IN THE GARDEN, WHEN I SAW THE MESSAGE, I GOT SO OVER JOYED AND THE FIRST THING I THOUGHT OF OWNING A COW SO THAT I CAN TAKE MILK AND SELL SOME"