On Monday, 15^th August 2022, Dr. William Bill Samoei Ruto was declared the 5^th president of Kenya by IEBC Chairman, Wafula Chebukati.

Leaders from Africa and other continents have sent their congratulatory messages to the incumbent Deputy President of Kenya, who just made history by becoming the first elected president to take over from his boss, Uhuru Kenyatta.

They also acknowledged the roles Kenyans played in sensitizing importance of the peaceful campaign period and elections.

Dr. Ruto was declared president by winning 7,176,141 of the total votes, which met the constitutional threshold of becoming president by 50+1%.

The following African leaders congratulated Ruto on his win:

1. President Yoweri Museveni – Uganda

Yoweri Museveni congratulated newly elected President Ruto and affirmed his and his government’s commitment to continue working with Nairobi. He wrote on his official Twitter account,

“On behalf of all Ugandans, I congratulate Your Excellency William Ruto upon your election as the 5^th President of the Republic of Kenya.”

Later he said, “Further to my telephone call last night upon your victory, I wish to reassure you of Uganda’s commitment to continue partnering with Kenya in advancing regional and continental agenda through the East African Community and other multilateral platforms.”

“Our cooperation will score tremendous achievements and I look forward to working more closely with you. God Bless Kenya. God Bless East Africa.”

2. President Samia Suluhu Hassan – Tanzania

Tanzania’s president Samia Suluhu also congratulated Ruto on becoming President. She acknowledged Kenyans for conducting a peaceful election, hoping that the two countries will strengthen their historical ties.

“I congratulate the people of Kenya on their peaceful general election and the subsequent announcement of Dr. William Ruto as President-elect. We look forward to continue working together with our brothers and sisters in Kenya to strengthen our historical ties. Tuko pamoja,” She wrote on her Twitter handle.

3. President Cyril Ramaphosa – South Africa

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa congratulated William Ruto. He reiterated the importance of having a united country on all fronts and how it goes a long way toward promoting a peaceful continent.

“I offer my warm congratulations to President-elect William Ruto of the Republic of Kenya. A prosperous and united Kenya is an important prerequisite for and contributor to a prosperous and peaceful continent.” He said.

“We look forward to working with you in pursuit of #TheAfricaWeWant.”

4. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed – Ethiopia

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed wished William Ruto the best as he takes the mantle from his superior.

“My congratulations William Ruto on your election as the President of the Republic of Kenya. I wish you the best of luck in your endeavors ahead and we look forward to working closely with you on common bilateral and regional interests.” He said.

5. President Emmerson Mnangagwa – Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa added that he had faith in the new leadership.

“Congratulations to William Ruto on his election as the next President of Kenya. I have no doubt he will serve his country, his people, and our continent with distinction.” He wrote.

6. President Mohammed Farmajo – Somalia

Somalia’s Farmaajo on his part commended Ruto for his hard work throughout the campaign period as he wished him well in his tenure as Head of State.

“I wish to offer my most sincere congratulations to President-Elect of Kenya H.E.  William Ruto and the people of Kenyan following the successful conclusion of the elections. You truly ran an enriching, overpowering campaign & May God help you fulfill your vision for your country,” he stated.

Raila: I reject presidential results, Chebukati is a dictator

7. President Muhammadu Buhari – Nigeria

President Buhari also congratulated Dr. Ruto and wished him a successful inauguration and tenure.

“I congratulate the President-Elect of Kenya, William Ruto, on his victory in the August 9, 2022, general elections. I wish him a successful inauguration and tenure in office, while also looking forward to more fruitful and robust engagements between Nigeria and Kenya,” he said.

He also commended Kenyans for the peaceful and transparent outcome of the elections.

He said that it ‘demonstrates that the democratic process, values and principles remain the best way for the people to select their leaders and hold them accountable.’

8. General Evariste Ndayishimiye – Burundi

Burundi’s President and chairperson of the EAC have congratulated Kenyans for holding free and fair elections

“My heartfelt congratulations to President-elect William Ruto and the people of the Republic of Kenya for holding free, fair, and peaceful elections. We urge all the parties to preserve peace, and disputes to be resolved by existing competent legal mechanisms. Idumu jumuiya yetu,” he said.