Juba — South Sudan on Sunday earmarked up to $700 million for the construction of the 400km road connecting its capital, Juba to Lakes state. President Salva Kiir officially inaugurated the ceremony for work commencement.

"In South Sudan, we want to achieve peace through road development and all of us and we must work for it," said Kiir, flanked by several officials.

"The construction [of the road] will foster economic development".

China is funding the project.

The Chinese ambassador to South Sudan, Ma Qaing, said construction of the road would enhance relations between the two countries.

"This Juba-Rumbek road is the life line of South Sudanese because it links the country to the west and the north," he said at the ground-breaking ceremony.

South Sudan's road and transport minister, Kuong Danhier Gatluak said inauguration of the construction project was a step in the direction towards achieving the vision to develop a safe, secure and efficient transportation system for a prosperous nation.

"The mission of the ministry of roads and transport is to serve the people of the country by ensuring a fast, safe, efficient, accessible, convenient and affordable intermodal transportation system that meets the vital national interest and enhances the quality of life of people today and in the future," said Gatluak.

Shandong Hi Speed Construction Group, a Chinese construction company, is undertaking the project whose duration was not readily disclosed by authorities.

South Sudan, which has a similar landmass to France, currently has only about 100km of paved roads. In 2012, however, the government unveiled 10 year (2012-2022) strategic plan to build 12,640km of its roads, including over 7,300km of inter-state roads.

The plan also covers the construction of bridges connecting Juba to other state capitals.

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