The South Sudanese government and rebels fighting to overthrow it have both agreed to a ceasefire. It was announced by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), an East African bloc that is attempting to mediate the conflict.<br /><br />“President Salva Kiir Mayardit and Dr. Riek Machar agree on the cessation of hostilities and appoint negotiators to develop a monitored and implemented ceasefire,” an IGAD statement said.<br /><br />No details have been released on when the ceasefire might take effect.<br /><br />South Sudan was plunged into violence when clashes erupted two weeks ago between supporters of President Salva Kiir and fighters loyal to former Vice President Riek Machar. <br /><br />At least 1,000 people have been killed since mid-December, according to the United Nations (UN).<br /><br />Both Kiir and Machar are reportedly set to attend peace talks in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa.<br /><br />Meanwhile, the violence is continuing. Early on Tuesday, December 31 the rebels announced that they had captured the strategically important city of Bor, in central South Sudan.
