Discussion on Political Cartooning – Guided by ‘why, what and how’ questions

Elsardt Amulyoto, the project’s Cartoonist and DT Expert, took the participants through an emotive discourse on the role of political cartooning and how they (young creatives) can influence their community peers, by use of cartoons, in electing accountable leaders towards their good.

Elsardt introduced political cartoons to the group, with each focus group member receiving 10 full-page sheets containing political cartoons run by one of the most syndicated political cartoonists in East and Central Africa, Gado, for use during the introduction and discussions. It emerged that participants understood the symbolism and humorous nature of political cartoons in their depictions. Therefore, levels of political cognition were high, owing to the advocacy and human rights campaigners in the group.

They all exhibited a considerable awareness of politics and its inherent connection to some of the perceived challenges faced in Mathare Valley. In their portrayals and interpretations of the political cartoons presented to them, emotive oppositions to unpopular Government-led initiatives and projects fronted by politicians were discussed. They felt, a critical analysis or commentary of some challenges faced in Mathare, were largely captured in the political cartoons before them.

The poor state of health care- evidenced by overpopulation in hospitals as depicted on the right, coupled with a political rank that is pre-occupied with constitution change at the expense of service delivery – was also a heated debate among the youthful participants. The political cartoons elicited vivid discussions in this focus group. Primarily because the youth have been left out of vaccination programs (COVID-19) or it has practically been impossible for them to access the COVID vaccines.

Political cartoon samples used during the first focus group

Many participants in this group, have become disillusioned with the minimal impact of political cartooning in bringing about change in their contexts. They said political cartoons or graffiti have been long produced throughout their history and they represent “soft power” a watering down of the issues. They are more inclined to protests and strikes to force through change – and in their own words – it is time for a ‘Revolution.’