By Patricia Mollyne Mataga
Ghana has awarded President William Ruto the country’s highest honour, The Companion of the Order of the Star of the Volta.
A statement from the State House, Kenya, indicate that while conferring the honour at a State banquet on Wednesday evening, Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo said President Ruto was an “example of a new generation of African leaders” who have decided to insist on the application of principles of accountability and due process to all citizens no matter their status in society”.
He further pointed out that President Ruto had done this no matter the complexity or sensitivity of political consequences.
“Under your leadership, Kenya has become a shining example of a nation governed by the rule of law,” President Akufo-Addo said.
He also pointed out that under Ruto’s leadership, Kenya had regained its place of pride at the international stage.
The Ghanian President cited declining inflation, growth in start ups and the number of Kenyans set to have access to housing and health insurance as some of the benefits that have come with the current regime.
Ruto has been in Ghana for an official visit.Earlier in Wednesday, the two countries signed at least seven Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs).
The MoUs, the State House said, are aimed at enhancing bilateral relations between the two countries.
President William Ruto said the MoUs, including some signed by business associations from Kenya and Ghana, are aimed at facilitating trade and investment between the two nations.
The goal, he said, is to expand opportunities for business, the private sector and peoples of the two nations.
Other MoUs include cooperation in science and technology, tourism, education, governance and defence.
“During my discussions with President Nana Akufo-Addo, we have noted that these agreements are significant in the evolution of our diplomatic ties, which stand on warm and cordial, dynamic and impactful historic collaboration,” Ruto said.
He made the remarks during a press conference at President Akufo-Addo’s office after the two leaders held talks.