President Salva Kiir delivering his Christmas message on 24th December 2023 - Credit: PPU

President Salva Kiir has called on South Sudanese to embrace the spirit of Peace, Love, and Harmony among themselves as the Christian faithful Celebrate the Christ Mass.

The Head of State has described this year as blessed, citing Pope Francis’s visits alongside the Arche Bishop of Canterbury and the Moderator of the Church of Scotland in February.

In his address on 24th December, Kiir also cited the success of the national Basketball team qualifying for the Paris Olympic games next year as well as his taking of the leadership of the East African Community.

“The year 2023 has been blessed by all measures, from welcoming His Holiness Pope Francis; the Archbishop of Canterbury and Moderator of the Church of Scotland in February; to shining our nation’s flag in the Basketball World Cup and subsequently qualifying for Paris Olympic games in 2024; and taking the leadership mantle of the East African Community, just to mention a few. All these could not have been possible without God, whose holy favor continues to open doors for the people of South Sudan to claim their rightful place in the world,” read his statement in part.

In his message to those traveling to the countryside, he assured that the government had taken all the necessary security measures to ensure they celebrate the festive season with their loved ones in peace.

“I can assure you that your government has taken all necessary security measures to ensure that you celebrate with your loved ones in peace. I implore religious leaders to use this opportunity to pray and spread the message of peace and forgiveness within our communities and neighbors,” he added.

“To our gallant security forces, I say thank you for your commitment to serving our country with great diligence. I urge all security forces to provide adequate security during this festive Season.”

And to the International community, Mr Kiir commended them for their unwavering commitment to delivering essential services to the people of South Sudan.

“I would like to comment our international humanitarian partners for their unwavering commitment in delivering essential services to our people.”