First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto on Wednesday visited two schools in California as part of her official visit to the United States.

She wanted to learn from their best practices and share Kenya’s achievements and challenges in education and health.

At Century High School in Santa Ana, Mama Rachel Ruto was impressed by the school’s successful integration of special needs education.

The school caters for more than 300 students with various disabilities, providing them with individualised education and support.

Mama Rachel Ruto met with school administrators and teachers and acknowledged them for their dedication and innovation. She said Kenya could learn from their example and ensure that the education system is more inclusive and benefits all children.

At Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science in Los Angeles, Mama Rachel Ruto delivered a powerful speech to students and faculty on global health disparities.

She highlighted the progress Kenya has made in health, such as expanding access to maternal and child health services, immunisation and HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment.

She also spoke about the challenges facing women in Kenya and around the world, such as gender-based violence and lack of empowerment.

Mama Rachel Ruto called for greater investment and cooperation to address these issues and ensure that women have equal opportunities and rights in all spheres of life.

Her visit to the two schools was well received by students, staff and community members. They expressed their appreciation for her passion in transforming the lives of women in Kenya.

They also expressed their hope for stronger ties between Kenya and the United States.