Mahama meets Kenyan President Ruto and pledges to deepen Ghana-Kenya relations

President-elect John Dramani Mahama and Kenyan President William Ruto have pledged to deepen ties, focusing on trade, investment, and regional integration. 

Meeting in Narok County, Kenya, on December 28, 2024, the two leaders discussed expanding cooperation in key sectors and advancing intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The two leaders emphasised the importance of collaboration to promote economic growth and strengthen bilateral relations.

"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," President Ruto stated.

Discussions centred on AfCFTA’s potential to boost trade across Africa, with Mr Mahama highlighting his commitment to regional trade integration. President Ruto reaffirmed Kenya’s dedication to enhancing ties with Ghana and expanding opportunities in agriculture, mining, energy, and tourism.

"It was a valuable opportunity to discuss our efforts toward regional integration, continental security, and how we can collectively enhance the benefits of the AfCFTA," Mr Mahama said.

"As a former Chair of the African Union's high-level committee on trade, I am committed to expanding trade between our countries under the framework of the AfCFTA. We will work to strengthen relations between Kenya and Ghana," he added.

President Ruto also expressed gratitude to Mahama for supporting Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the African Union Commission chairmanship, calling it a significant gesture of solidarity within the region.

Mr Mahama invited President Ruto to attend his swearing-in ceremony on January 7, 2025, in Accra, which President Ruto accepted.