"At Least 16 People Killed and 400 Injured in Kenyan Protests"

By: Kekey Daniel 

Source: The Guardian 

Tears, pain, and anger filled the streets of Nairobi and other towns in Kenya on Tuesday, as peaceful protests turned deadly. At least 16 people were killed, and more than 400 others were injured after police clashed with protestors who had gathered to remember those who died during last year’s demonstrations.

The protests were meant to be peaceful. Young people came out in large numbers, holding Kenyan flags, posters, and wearing black to mourn those who died the year before. They sang songs of unity, chanted for justice, and asked the government to listen to their cries about high living costs and lack of jobs.

But things quickly changed. Police started firing tear gas and, in some cases, live bullets into the crowd. People screamed and ran in all directions. Some fell and got injured in the chaos. Others tried to help the wounded, even as more gas filled the air.

One protestor, Brian Otieno, 22, said, “I was just holding a placard that said ‘Justice for the Fallen’ when a tear gas canister landed near us. We weren’t violent. We just wanted to be heard.”

Hospitals in Nairobi became full with injured people. Some had gunshot wounds, others had broken bones, and many were choking from the tear gas. Families waited outside, crying and praying for their loved ones to survive.

Rights groups like Amnesty International have blamed the police for using too much force. They are asking for the officers involved in the killings to be punished.

President William Ruto spoke on TV and asked for calm. But he also said that some people in the crowd were planning trouble, which is why the police acted. Many Kenyans, however, believe the government is not doing enough to protect its people’s rights.

Senator Fatuma Hassan said, “This bloodshed was avoidable. All the people wanted was to express their pain and be heard.”

As night came, fear and sadness hung heavy in the air. Police were still on the streets. Shops were closed. And families of those who died were left in mourning, asking one simple question: Why did this have to happen again?

Now, the country waits — for justice, for peace, and for answers.

"Iran Launches Missiles At US Base In Qatar In Retaliation For Bombing Nuclear Sites"

Source: The Guardian 

1. Does the image accurately represent the headline’s message?

Yes. The image shows a missile being launched at night with bright flames, which aligns well with the headline about Iran launching missiles. It visually supports the idea of a military response.

2. What emotions does the image evoke?

The image evokes a sense of urgency, tension, and fear. The night setting and the fire from the missile launch can trigger concerns about war or escalation, making the viewer feel the seriousness of the event.

3. Is the image manipulated or biased?

There is no clear evidence of manipulation, but the image could be seen as biased depending on context. It presents only one side — the act of Iran launching missiles — and may frame Iran as the aggressor without showing the prior events (such as the alleged bombing of nuclear sites).

4. How does composition affect storytelling?

The central focus on the missile and the bright flames draw the viewer's attention to the power and drama of the launch. The dark background increases contrast, making the missile appear more dominant and dangerous.

5. Does the image add depth to the story or simply reinforce the headline?

It mostly reinforces the headline by visualizing the missile launch. However, it lacks context, such as the reaction from the US base or images of damage or casualties, so it doesn’t add much depth.

6. Would a different image change the reader’s perception of the news?

Yes. A different image — for example, one showing the aftermath at the US base or injured people — could shift the focus from military strength to human impact, evoking sympathy rather than tension or fear.

7. How does the image compare to others covering the same story?

Images from other sources might show political leaders, destroyed sites, or public protests, which could offer more context or show different angles of the conflict. This image focuses solely on the military action, making it more dramatic but less informative.

8. Is the image culturally or politically significant?

Yes. It reflects political tension between Iran and the US and highlights the use of military force as a form of retaliation. It may also reflect media bias, especially if consistently used to portray one side as aggressive.

 "We Must Modernize And Document Our Cultures To Strengthen Their Roles In Governance – King Mswati III"

Source: Adom Online 

1. Does the image accurately represent the headline’s message?

Yes. The image shows King Mswati III engaging with community members in a traditional setting, which aligns with the theme of culture playing a role in governance.

2. What emotions does the image evoke?

It evokes a sense of unity, pride, and respect for tradition. There’s also warmth and dignity in the way the King interacts with the people.

3. Is the image manipulated or biased?

No obvious manipulation is visible. However, the focus on royal regalia and traditional attire may frame the culture in a purely ceremonial way, omitting any critical lens.

4. How does composition affect storytelling?

The King is centered and brightly dressed, drawing attention. The crowd and elders around him reflect community inclusion. The umbrella and staff reinforce tradition and authority.

5. Does the image add depth to the story or simply reinforce the headline?

It adds depth by showing a real-life example of cultural engagement, not just talking about modernization but visually emphasizing existing traditions in action.

6. Would a different image change the reader’s perception of the news?

Yes. A photo of a formal speech or a modern setting might highlight the "modernization" aspect more, while this image emphasizes tradition and communal connection.

7. How does the image compare to others covering the same story?

Other images may focus on official meetings or international events. This one stands out by showcasing grassroots cultural interaction.

8. Is the image culturally or politically significant?

Yes. It reflects the deep respect for chieftancy and tradition in African societies, and hints at the political role traditional rulers still play.

Conclusion:

The image effectively complements the headline by visually presenting traditional values in practice, making a strong case for why such heritage should be preserved and integrated into governance.

UNIMAC-IFT #Shienga Visual Storytelling2025