Chapter Two History of the El Haimedab Region

First: The History of Slavery in the Region: a. The Status of Native Administration in Sudan: Before the end of the first twenty years of British rule, the population increased and the area expanded. The government had to manage the administrative system in a way that anticipated and avoided new circumstances. 46 In 1921, Mr. Metternich issued a memorandum on Sudan, which included: "The administration of the different parts of Sudan should be entrusted to native authorities, especially under British supervision and control. Decentralization will be established, and the employment of native administration will enable them to carry out simple administrative tasks in the country in its current state. This new situation will reduce expenses and raise the level of services." 47 In 1922, the government issued a memorandum that followed Mr. Metternich's lead. Steps were also taken to organize the powers of tribal chiefs and local officials, assigning them some direct administrative tasks. In 1927, the Governor-General issued "The Power of Sheikhs Ordinance." Some native administrations were granted financial responsibilities, such as collecting and assessing the tax on herds and tithes, which are taxes imposed on crops. Later, in 1931, the "Native Courts Ordinance" was issued. 48