▼ The aim of this research study was to examine the role of traditional leadership during the upsurge of civil war in Southern Sudan. There has not been much research conducted in this field especially in Abiem County. Throughout the research process the role of traditional leaders has shown an unprecedented position during the liberation struggled characterized by huge support in terms of material support, manpower and political mobilization. The data analysis clearly reflected the roles of traditional leaders that occupied the historical perspective amidst the armed struggle waged by successive liberation movements and especially during the Sudan people’s Liberation Movement and Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLM/SPLA) from 1983 - 2004. It reflected on the vital roles of people’s support in the liberation movement represented by their traditional leaders, chiefs, elders, spiritual leaders, women and youth. Thus the perception of the role of traditional leadership in its different categories ha s shown a satisfactory and effective contribution to the war of liberation in Southern Sudan. However, in order to achieve the objectives, an investigation was conducted with various interviewees. As stated earlier, participants ranged from the chiefs and elders to local military and civil appointed administrators, women, youth and religious leaders. The main results of the study have profoundly asserted the important role of traditional leaders in the local government and their involvement in popular decision making and in local conflict management. Advisors/Committee Members: Prof. Kanyane, M. H.