The Pope made a "peace pilgrimage" to the country over the weekend with the heads of the churches in England and Scotland.

In his sermon on Sunday during a mass in the capital, Juba, the Pope urged the country to reject the "venom of hatred".

Man South Sudanese are hoping their leaders will heed the advice.

"I expect our leaders to change their hearts and implement the message of peace brought by Pope Francis so that the people of South Sudan can have a lasting peace," Imma Lasu told the BBC after the mass.

Rose Adao, a member of the Pentecostal Church, said she wants the leaders of South Sudan to repent and carry out the message of peace brought by Pope Francis.

Elisabeth Mayak Thomas, 20, was among the volunteers in preparations to host the Pope. She said she expected the leaders to "implement the peace agreement and reconcile our people".