"I bought land so that I can relocate in future and two cows because I can get more money from it and have it as an asset"

"As a single father responsible for my child since her mother left, I faced the challenging task of ensuring her basic needs were met. With no stable source of income and relying mainly on livestock rearing and small-scale farming for sustenance, this was not an easy feat. When I received the third transfer, I invested $200 in intensifying my livestock-rearing project by adding five goats to my existing herd of 12. Goats are known for their fast reproduction, and I believe they will serve as a valuable source of income in the future. Additionally, I used $75 to purchase one roll of chain-link fencing. This addition complements the rolls I had previously acquired, allowing me to secure my two acres of land. This will protect my crops and grass from wandering animals and ensure that my livestock have access to food during the dry season, which typically occurs at the beginning of the year. I also had a pending debt of $30 for a phone that I had acquired in installments, which I cleared, bringing me peace of mind. I also purchased $50 worth of food, ensuring that we had sustenance during the period. Furthermore, I used the remaining amount to invest in an extension of my house. This planned extension will create an extra room, and since my house is located near the road, it presents a potential opportunity for business of rent out the additional space to earn a living."

"In the coming year and beyond, my primary aim is to find a stable source of income that will enable me to pursue higher education. Despite completing form 4 in 2019, financial constraints prevented me from continuing my studies, and to this day, I haven't secured a reliable means to facilitate my entry into further education. My family's situation has been challenging as my parents separated long ago, and my father has since passed away, while my mother has remarried into another family. During this time, my aunt has been taking care of us with my younger brother who is still in school, but I have decided to step aside after finishing my form four studies, as we were reliant on aid. My goal is to work diligently, explore different opportunities, and save up for my education to create a brighter future for myself."

"In the coming years, my commitment to providing quality education for my children will remain unwavering. I understand the profound impact education has on leveling the playing field and opening doors of opportunity. To ensure this continuity, I have a well-thought-out plan. First and foremost, I will prioritize the timely payment of school fees to prevent any interruptions in my children's education. I recognize the importance of a consistent and uninterrupted learning environment. To achieve this, I am venturing into a promising business of buying cows within our village and reselling them at the nearest market. This business opportunity holds great potential, mainly because there is a market need in our locale. The profits generated from this venture will enable me to realize my aspiration of providing the best possible education for my children."

"Eight years ago, I tragically lost my wife, leaving me to single-handedly care for our 11 children. It was an incredibly challenging time in our lives, but we are grateful for God's guidance. As a retired teacher, I rely on a modest government pension. However, the burden of school fees forced me to sell my goats, leaving me with nothing. When I received my first transfer, I made the decision to invest the entire $20 in purchasing goats, as they are relatively easy to care for and can find their own food. I am overjoyed that, finally, I have been able to achieve this goal in such a short period of time."

"GiveDirectly excels in ensuring that the program is well understood by the local community, taking the time to explain its details with patience. Furthermore, the unconditional nature of the cash made it easy for us to use it according to our needs. I did not encounter any areas in which improvements were necessary during my interaction with the program,."

"In the coming year and beyond, my aspiration is to establish a clothing business, which I believe will increase my income and enable me to provide for my children's school fees. To realize this dream, I intend to save the money I earn from my current business and the rental house."

"The greatest challenge that we are facing is the lack of food. This year we planted 2 hectares of maize which failed due to lack of rain and water for irrigation. Since we did not have money for cultivation we borrowed a lone from the Sacco which we owe till today. This has made life very difficult because, in addition to lacking food, we owe a lot of money. We feel life is becoming very difficult for us."

"The ability to obtain financial support from the organization was the finest thing that ever occurred to me. It enabled me to address critical demands and improve the well-being of my family. What spiked out, though, was the GiveDirectly staff's outstanding friendliness and approachability. They were natural people who were concerned about my condition. Their sensitivity and willingness to listen helped to make the entire process feel personal and helpful, which I value."

"If I ever come into some money, my top priority would be to purchase a piece of land. Right now, I'm living on family property, but the dream of owning my parcel of land is what drives me. It's not just about property; it represents something deeper for me; respect and dignity. Owning that piece of land would symbolize my independence and the hard work I've put in to secure my future. It's a simple goal, but it means the world to me, a place I can call my own, a piece of the Earth that echoes my journey towards self-sufficiency and pride."