WARRAP – A man has tragically died of suspected stomach complications during a traditional fattening occasion in Gogrial East County in Warrap State, multiple sources said.
Mayol Akeer, the son of Manyiel Deng from Kuac Ayok Community reportedly died at Ayok cattle camp on August 20th, 2025.
Elders confirmed that, by custom, Mayol is automatically declared the winner for two years, and his legacy will be remembered in the community.
In the Dinka (Jieng) tradition, unmarried men drink cows milk and avoid movement for long periods of time before finally meeting to see who is the fattest.
The purpose of this contest is to make themselves attractive to women who can see the wealth and productivity of the man’s cattle herd through his girth.
The fattening season usually occurs in the dry season until June or later, when the herds are moved to the swamplands and riverine areas known as the toich to graze on rich grasses and other forage.
This period of ample food and water in the wetlands allows the cattle to gain weight and health before the onset of the rainy season, which is crucial for the Dinka’s economy and cultural practices.
