The Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA) and members of rebel forces led by General George Athor signed a ceasefire on Thursday in southern Sudan. The deal comes in advance of a crucial referendum on independence. 

Some of the terms in the ceasefire agreement include ending all military operations, troop movement and recruitment.

The two groups have been fighting since an election last April, but SPLA soldiers said they are committed to peace.

The agreement is seen as key to creating a peaceful voting environment before Sunday's referendum on independence for the south.

Al Jazeera's Haru Mutasa reports from Juba.