Warrap State bans traditional cultural fattening competition

State Information said the decision is meant to save lives as the authorities intend to review the health and safety risks linked to the tradition.

By Aguok Chok

The government of Warrap State has banned the traditional fattening competitions after two young men died while taking part in the cultural practice this month.

Speaking to the media on Friday, State Information Minister Mamer Bath said the decision is meant to save lives as the authorities intend to review the health and safety risks linked to the tradition.

“We, as the government, have to stop this practice. We can rule it out and stop it. We need people to turn their focus to farming. This fattening should be regulated in a way that doesn’t take people’s lives; we don’t stop people from taking milk,” Minister Mamer stated.

The fattening competition, a well-known cultural tradition in Warrap, involves young men consuming large amounts of milk while avoiding solid food.

The aim is to gain significant weight, with the fattest man declared the winner. Supporters say it demonstrates strength and masculinity, but health experts and civil society groups warn that the practice poses dangerous risks.

This month, two tragic deaths shocked communities in Warrap after two contestants died mysteriously.

On August 20, a 28-year-old Mayol Manyiel Deng died from stomach complications after taking part in a fattening contest at Ayok cattle camp of Kuac Ayok Community in Gogrial West County. However, he was later declared the winner of that competition.

Also, on Thursday, another young man, Bak Wol Agor, lost his life while taking part in the fattening session at Majok-tong cattle camp of          Kuac Ayok Community in Gogrial West County.

His death marked the second fatality this month from the contest, heightening concern among authorities and residents.

The repeated incidents have sparked heated debate across the country on social media, with many citizens calling for a total ban on the life-risking cultural practice.

Many people argued that the cultural value of fattening competitions should not come at the expense of young men’s lives.

Traditional leaders in Warrap have expressed mixed reactions. Some elders say the competitions are a proud cultural heritage and should not be abolished completely. However, others agree that reform and regulation are necessary to prevent further tragedies.

For now, the Warrap State government insists that the ban will remain in force while consultations continue.

Minister Mamer emphasized that young men should instead channel their energy into productive activities such as farming, which could benefit families and communities rather than endanger lives.

The ban marks the first official government action against fattening competitions, which have long been a source of pride but are now under increasing scrutiny after recent deaths.