"I would wish to start a grocery business that will generate income that will help me meet my daily needs without much struggle. I am confident that this business will be more reliable than the charcoal making activity that I currently engage in. Vegetables are easily available in my region and are fast moving goods as people consume them daily. Although right now I do not have the funds to start this business, I am banking on the livestock that I plan on buying using savings from the recent cash transfer. As they multiply, I intend to sell some of them to obtain the capital for starting the business."

"For the longest time, providing enough food for my family of seven has been a constant struggle. My work as a casual laborer, earning around $2 a day, was never stable. There were times when my children would go to bed on empty stomachs, and that was a deeply distressing experience for me. When I received the recent unconditional cash transfer, I knew exactly where it needed to go. I spent $260 on buying sufficient food supplies. Finally, our household had enough to ensure we could have at least two meals a day. Witnessing my family look healthier and more satisfied now fills me with immense relief and joy. Apart from addressing our food shortage, I invested $96 in buying two mattresses and bedsheets for my children and myself. Sleeping on the floor with mats had become a painful nightly routine, causing discomfort and aching backs. The new bedding has brought newfound comfort to our sleep, and waking up without soreness has been a blessing. Moreover, I allocated $50 to purchase a new door for our home. Security was a concern, and having a sturdy door has brought me peace of mind, knowing that our belongings are safer and more protected. Lastly, settling a $40 debt for my brother has lifted a significant weight off my shoulders, granting me the tranquility I desperately needed. Now, I can finally breathe easy, knowing I've addressed some pressing needs for my family's well-being and security."

"Everything was done clearly and perfectly. The transparency in the processes was very admirable. I wouldn’t recommend for anything to be changed."

"Hoping that my grandson's certificate won't be withheld after the Secondary school final exams results are announced, given he currently has no outstanding fees, my aim is to keep doing odd jobs on people's farms in order to raise money for his college education. Hopefully, in the near future, my goats will multiply and I will be able to trade them for cows and engage in more livestock farming, which will help us feed our family in the future."

"Raising my grandson's college fees has been a persistent challenge, despite managing to clear part of the outstanding arrears with the help of the transfers. My son, who engages in casual work, often struggles to meet the family's needs, adding to the complexity of our financial situation. Apart from the one in college, I have additional grandchildren who depend on me for their education. While the financial support eventually ceased, my primary focus remains ensuring that my grandchildren attain their educational aspirations. Deprived of the opportunity for formal education myself, I am determined to break this cycle for them, believing in the transformative power of education to shape their future lives. Despite the obstacles, my commitment to their academic success remains unwavering. The pursuit of education is a legacy I am determined to pass on, a beacon guiding them towards a brighter future."

"Upon receiving my second transfer, I was able to increase the stock of my existing business of tailoring which took $200 which was my priority since I knew that I would be able to buy food for my children. Also, I spent $100 to purchase 5 goats surprisingly my dream of having my goats had been achieved. the thought of having a steady supply of milk for our household is an exciting prospect so goats do have ready markets here. I also used $50 to get my children's certificates something that was disturbing my mind for so long. Finally, I used $107 to stock up on essential food supplies that ensured that our household's nutritional needs were met and also alleviated the worry that accompanied uncertainties about our next meal since I used to do charcoal burning which is very hard and sometimes lacking markets. The remaining $93 I invested in opening a small shop(kiosk) where I will be selling some groceries. This investment am sure it contribute to the overall well-being of my children and confidence in their daily lives."

"A glimmer of hope arrived in the form of GiveDirectly's support of the unconditional cash transfer. With my first and second transfer, I prioritized my children's education and food. Aside from that, I started a shop and a posho mill, which is greatly supporting my family. The income from these businesses enabled me to plant fruit trees (mangoes and pawpaws) since they do so well in the area. and also started my fencing project to envision a thriving homestead and to protect my farm. When I received my third and last transfer therefore, I spent $90 to complete the fence. In addition, I spent $90 on clothing for my five children to replace the stitched old clothes that they had. My husband who works as a teacher and the family's breadwinner really struggles to raise our children's school fees and also the other family needs. Understanding the importance of education, and ensuring my children thrive and succeed in school, I decided to buy each one of them encyclopedia revision books worth $60 to empower them and create a bridge to success. Lastly, I improved my Posho mill and and shop by buying additional stock for a total of $220. I am grateful to Give Directly for making things possible. From the meagre earnings I used to make from collecting and selling aloe vera leaves in order to meet some of the household needs like food, I can confidently say that my home has become a beacon of success in the village and an attractive admiration of hope."

"In the midst of a biased society you did well in avoiding discrimination and ensuring a friendly and a fair approach, however recognizing the challenges of starting new things and ventures incorporating extension services could enhance expertise and communication, bridging gaps for even greater success"

"My main objective is to elevate my avocado-selling business to new heights by raising additional capital. I am convinced that with increased financial resources, I can implement strategies to enhance the quality of my products, expand my market reach, and ultimately reap substantial profits. By diligently reinvesting these earnings and adopting sound financial practices, my aim is not just short-term success but long-term financial security. I envision a future where the fruits of my labor not only yield delicious avocados but also a stable and prosperous foundation for myself and those dependent on the success of my enterprise."

"Housing is the challenge I am currently facing in life. I have a family of nine members and all live in a one room house. My first daughter Judy is now grown up and she has to have her own room. I feel embarrassed in the community because it is not good to share a room with such a grown up girl. The house also serves as a kitchen. I feel disturbed psychological."