President Paul Kagame is in South Sudan for the country's second independence anniversary.

Kagame was received by South Sudanese President Salva Kiir upon arrival this morning. The two Heads of State later paid tribute to the late Colonel John Garang, the founder of the Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA).

"On behalf of people of Rwanda and on my behalf, I would like to express my sincere congratulation to the people of Sudan,” said President Kagame. "We salute your efforts and the Rwandan people stand with you in this arduous task of nation building.”

The President also reiterated that Africans' destiny is tied together and that the future of the continent will be assured by working together for common interests. He added that Africans have to learn from each other and forge a future that is beneficial to all.

South Sudan became an independent state on July 9, 2011, following a referendum that passed with 98.83% of the vote.