08/09/2026
Her Excellency the First Lady, Mama Rachel Ruto, has called for collective action to ensure that children can learn in good health, confidence and dignity, regardless of their social or economic circumstances.
Accompanied by Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr Ouma Oluga, the First Lady visited Okela Comprehensive School in Rarieda Constituency, Siaya County, where she distributed shoes and dignity packs through the Voice of Children Initiative.
Mama Rachel Ruto placed particular emphasis on menstrual dignity, noting that no girl should miss school, lose confidence or have her aspirations disrupted because of menstruation. “Your dignity matters. Your education matters. And your dreams matter,” she told the learners.
She also encouraged the learners to embrace hard work, discipline and respect. The First Lady cited Dr Oluga, an alumnus of Okela Comprehensive School, as an example of how education can transform lives and create opportunities beyond one’s circumstances.
The intervention recognises the close relationship between health and education. By addressing poverty, dignity, protection and access to basic necessities, the initiative complements the Government’s Universal Health Coverage agenda and supports healthier communities.
Learners at Okela Primary and Okela Secondary schools benefited from the intervention, alongside learners from schools in Chianda, Kobonyo, Ragengni, Lweya, Mituri, Madiany, Pala Kobong, Gagra and Migowa.
Also present were Rarieda Member of Parliament Hon. Otiende Amollo, Siaya County Commissioner Mr Norbert Komora, Okela Comprehensive School Head Teacher Mr Peter Owour, teachers, school administrators, parents, guardians and learners.
