The World-Shaking Image
This is the photograph that led the photographer to commit suicide after taking it. The image shows a vulture waiting for a starving human child to die - ready to pounce as soon as the child takes his last breath.
Photographer: Kevin Carter (South Africa)
The Tragic Background
March 1993 - Sudan
A severe famine had struck Sudan. There was no food or water anywhere. A starving child was crawling toward a UN food warehouse half a mile away from Ayod city, hoping for a handful of food.
At one point, the child collapsed from exhaustion, laying her head on the ground. At that moment, a vulture landed nearby, waiting for the child to die so it could eat the flesh.
The Photo's Impact
Published In
The New York Times
Award Won
Pulitzer Prize (1994)
Tragic End
Photographer committed suicide at age 33
Despite winning the highest honor in photography, Kevin Carter was mentally broken since taking the picture. The trauma and guilt overwhelmed him.
Kevin Carter's Final Prayer
"O Most Gracious, I promise, no matter how bad food tastes, I won't waste it, even if I'm not hungry! I pray we become more sensitive to the world around us and not blinded by our inner selfishness and narrowness."
"I pray more, you will protect, guide and deliver that little boy from his suffering. Let this picture remind people how lucky they are compared to that child, because without your grace we are nothing."
"Good bye!"
Lessons From This Tragedy
Appreciate What You Have
Never waste food. Be grateful for every meal, remembering those who have nothing
Mental Health Matters
Trauma and guilt can have devastating effects. Mental health support is crucial
Global Awareness
Be aware of suffering around the world and help where you can
A Sobering Reminder
This photograph serves as a powerful reminder of human suffering, the importance of compassion, and the heavy burden that sometimes comes with bearing witness to tragedy.
