Kenyan President William Ruto has announced that Ghana’s President-elect, John Mahama, has declared his support for Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the African Union Commission chairperson position.

President Ruto made this statement on social media after hosting Mr Mahama during his visit to Kenya.

The two leaders reportedly discussed strengthening ties between their nations and expanding collaboration in key sectors such as trade, agriculture, mining, tourism, and oil and gas.

Expressing appreciation for Mahama’s endorsement of Odinga, Mr tweeted:

"Hosted Ghana’s President-elect @JDMahama, and discussed the expansion of intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

"Thanked him for declaring his support for Hon Raila Odinga‘s African Union Commission chairperson candidature. Also agreed to attend his swearing-in in Accra next month."

The discussions also touched on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), with both leaders emphasising the need to expand intra-African trade and enhance economic integration.

President Ruto further confirmed his attendance at the President-elects swearing-in ceremony in Accra next month, signaling Kenya’s commitment to deepening ties with Ghana and fostering Pan-African cooperation.

Kenya will enhance her relations with Ghana to include more sectors in trade and investment, agriculture, mining, tourism, oil and gas.

This will broaden opportunities for the people of the two countries and ensure our shared prosperity.

Hosted Ghana’s President-elect… pic.twitter.com/ZPWhO1LXz9

— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) December 29, 2024