"I own a plot in the nearby shopping center where I initially constructed a small structure that unfortunately got destroyed by termites. Currently, our plan is to demolish the existing structure and embark on the construction of a new residential block, given its strategic location at the periphery of the shopping center. I am optimistic about commencing the construction process this January, as I anticipate receiving my share and securing a loan from the Sacco of which I am a member. This dual financial approach is intended to facilitate the realization of our goal to build a new and more resilient residential block, overcoming the setbacks posed by termite damage and contributing to the overall improvement of our living situation."

"With the blessing of $200 from GiveDirectly, I set out to change our fortunes. The sorry state of my infested beans pushed me into action. A portion of the money, $20, went into crucial pesticides. But that wasn't all. I took a bold step and rented three-quarters of a piece of land for $52. With $8 more, I bought herbicide to clear the weeds, and $5 went into purchasing maize seeds. My wife's merry-go-round women's group lent their support, joining hands to plant the maize. The decision was strategic; maize grows well in our current favorable weather. It's not just about fixing our food problem; it's a lifeline that might rescue us from the erratic earnings of my $4-per-day casual jobs. The surplus maize can provide us with income and a chance to invest in our future. I handed $80 to my wife, allowing us to purchase food. Before GiveDirectly's help, securing a meal was a daunting task. Thank you, GiveDirectly, for transforming our lives. Your generosity wasn't just about money; it was about sowing the seeds of hope and resilience in our lives, promising a brighter tomorrow for my growing family."

"In the past month, I faced an unexpected turn of events that led me to make a significant decision with the unconditional monthly cash transfer I received. Having spent $550, I managed to secure a plot that would have otherwise been out of my financial reach, valued at $1500. Fortunately, my brother stepped in and contributed the remaining amount, allowing me to acquire the property. The urgency to invest in this plot arose when I learned that the place I had been residing in, which I thought was a stable environment, was unexpectedly sold by the owner. Left with no alternative place to go, I decided to use the monthly cash transfer to secure the plot, providing a sense of stability for myself and my family. As a businesswoman, I specialize in selling dry fish and vegetables. This venture has become a lifeline for me and my children, as I find myself in the challenging position of being the sole provider. My husband has abandoned us, leaving me with the responsibility of meeting the financial needs of our family. The income generated from my small business not only sustains us on a day-to-day basis but also plays a crucial role in paying the school fees for my children. Despite the hardships, I am determined to persevere and create a better future for my family through the opportunities that arise from this recently acquired plot and the ongoing efforts in my business."

"Receiving the unconditional monthly cash transfer from GiveDirectly has been a game-changer for my family. With the recent $70, I was able to complete the construction of a two-bedroom house, providing a more secure and comfortable living space for my family. Previously, my five children were scattered, some even sleeping at their grandmother's place due to limited space. Now, with the new house, all my children are under one roof, allowing me to monitor and care for them the way I've always wished. I invested $220 in purchasing two beds with mattresses, a significant improvement from the small mattresses they used to sleep on the floor, impacting their health. This not only brought comfort but also joy to their lives. Allocating $11 for food was a relief, ensuring that my children no longer had to endure hunger throughout the day. Additionally, I prioritized education, using part of the money to pay school fees for all five children. For the first time, they settled into school, and took their exams, and I couldn't be prouder. In the past, our income from my charcoal-making hustle and my husband's casual work was unpredictable, but thanks to GiveDirectly, we've been able to make substantial improvements in our living conditions and the well-being of our family."

"In the past year, the cash transfer from GiveDirectly has been a lifeline for my family. With $50, I was able to clear school fees balances all of my five children in lower grades, ensuring they had the opportunity for a brighter future. Another $67 went into completing the construction of our 2-bedroom house, a significant improvement from the cramped living conditions we endured. My children used to sleep at their grandmother's place due to lack of space, but now we can all sleep under one roof. Allocating $80 for mattresses was a game-changer; no longer do we rely on uncomfortable mats for bedding, which had been taking a toll on our health. Investing $120 in new clothes has not only lifted our spirits but also boosted the self-esteem of my family. Previously, we wore torn and ragged clothes, but now we can proudly choose outfits, especially for the church. With the remaining funds, I secured a sack of 90kg of maize, guaranteeing that my children woouldn't go to bed hungry. Despite our livelihood challenges as charcoal burners, the cash transfer has allowed us to address crucial needs and build a foundation for a better life. In the coming year, I hope to continue making strides toward providing a more comfortable and fulfilling life for my family."

"Reliable source of income is the challenge I am currently facing in life. I do casual jobs earning very little income which caters for food only and sometimes I spend the whole month without any job. This has caused famine and has affected my family health. The family takes one meal per day most of the time."

"Health issues has been a challenge for me. I used to own a barber shop at the trading centre and it was booming very well. I used to make at least $7 per day. I fell sick and I was indoors for four months. That made me unable to work and my business closed up . I am happy I am now okay but I am still struggling with accessing job since I lack capital to revive my business."

"Food insecurity is the challenge I am currently facing in life. I do subsistence farming as my job but the community has been under drought for the past six years. This has caused famine in the village. The family takes one meal per day and sometimes we go without any food. This has affected my health and the family health too."

"My goal is to launch a livestock business, concentrating specifically on goats. I plan to buy and sell goats, intending to use the generated proceeds for future investments. This venture is crucial for ensuring a sustainable source of income to meet all the basic needs of my family. I will utilize funds from upcoming transfers and combine them with my current savings to realize this undertaking. Being a participant in this project has undeniably brought about a transformative change in my life, and I am genuinely delighted to contribute to and be a part of this positive transformation."

"From my perspective, the support extended by GiveDirectly has profoundly improved our quality of life, marking a truly transformative experience. The program's communication was clear and effective, presented in a language comprehensible to all, and its implementation demonstrated fairness and impartiality, devoid of any discrimination. I harbor no criticisms or concerns regarding any facet of the program's execution or integrity."