The conflict killed some 400,000 people and displaced millions before South Sudan's warring factions signed a peace deal in 2018 and formed a unity government. (Source: PBS)

South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011, but has been plagued by violence and political conflict. A 2018 peace deal signed between President Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar ended the conflict in the country, but many key provisions have yet to be implemented and have been repeatedly delayed.

In his speech, President Kiir highlighted the importance of learning from mistakes and working together to rebuild the country. The government will work with the Intergovernmental Authority on East African Development (IGAD) and partners to fully implement the remaining provisions.

The South Sudanese president said the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo was threatening peace and stability in the region and called for an end to the Sudan conflict. However, Mr Kiir did not mention national elections scheduled for December.

In April, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for “urgent measures” to ensure elections could take place, while the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) warned of a lack of “technical, legal and operational skills” to organize the elections. Britain, Norway and the United States have urged South Sudanese parties to work together to overcome the delays.