President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has congratulated Kenyan President elect William Samoei Ruto on winning the hotly contested race.

Ruto who has been serving as the country’s Deputy President polled 7,176,141 votes which accounted for 50.49% of the total votes.

Odinga polled 6,942,930 votes which accounted for 48.85% of the total votes cast.

Museveni who revealed on Tuesday morning that he had called Ruto last night promised that Uganda would continue partnering with Kenya to enhance regional development.

“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, African Union and other multilateral platforms,” Museveni posted on his Social Media.

“Our bilateral cooperation will score tremendous achievements and I look forward to working more closely with you. God bless Kenya. God bless East Africa,” he added.

Museveni and Ruto, away from being leaders of the two neighboring nations are personal friends.

In 2015, Ruto campaigned for Museveni in Kapchorwa, striking a lifetime partnership with East Africa’s kingmaker.

“Young people must be at the forefront to vote for leadership that will guarantee peace and stability so we can build our economy, expand opportunities for young people so we eliminate poverty and create jobs,” Ruto said as he campaigned for Museveni in Kapchorwa.

Over the past few years, Ruto has been frequenting Uganda and on many occasions has attended events with Museveni.