Ancient Sudan
Pre-Colonial Era (Before 1800s)
Warrap was historically home to Nilotic ethnic groups, primarily the Dinka, who practiced cattle herding, agriculture, and traditional governance under chiefs and elders.
Warrap State is one of the states in South Sudan with a rich historical background, deeply connected to the country's political, social, and cultural development. Below is a timeline of key historical events related to Warrap:
Warrap was historically home to Nilotic ethnic groups, primarily the Dinka, who practiced cattle herding, agriculture, and traditional governance under chiefs and elders.
The area fell under the influence of the Turco-Egyptian administration, which introduced taxation and the slave trade, affecting communities in Warrap.
The Mahdist revolt in Sudan led to instability in the region, disrupting local governance structures.
Warrap became part of the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan. British colonial rule emphasized indirect governance through traditional leaders. Limited infrastructure development took place, with an emphasis on missionary schools and Christianity spreading among some communities.
Warrap was involved in the Anyanya rebellion against the Khartoum government. Many Warrap residents joined the fight for Southern autonomy. The 1972 Addis Ababa Agreement granted Southern Sudan semi-autonomy, bringing temporary peace.
The war resumed after the Khartoum government revoked the South’s autonomy. Warrap became a stronghold for the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army (SPLM/A). Many people from Warrap joined the struggle, including key SPLM figures like John Garang. The war led to displacement, destruction, and loss of life.
The CPA was signed in 2005, ending the war. Salva Kiir Mayardit, a prominent leader from Warrap, became the Vice President of Sudan and later the President of South Sudan. Warrap played a significant role in the 2011 referendum that led to South Sudan’s independence.
South Sudan gained independence on July 9, 2011. Warrap became one of the ten original states of South Sudan. Salva Kiir, from Warrap, became the first President of the country.
In 2015, President Salva Kiir restructured South Sudan’s states, creating 28 states, later expanded to 32, dividing Warrap into smaller states like Twic, Gogrial, and Tonj. In 2020, the Revitalized Peace Agreement restored the country to 10 states, reinstating Warrap State. Warrap has faced intercommunal conflicts, cattle raids, and clashes between armed youth and security forces.
In 2019, South Sudan underwent a significant administrative restructuring, changing the number of states from 32 back to 10 states. This was part of the peace agreement signed in 2013 and later implemented in 2020 to help restore stability and unify the country.