The arid expanse stretched before Omar, a canvas of ochre and burnt umber, punctuated by the skeletal remains of withered trees. He traced the lines of a satirical cartoon in the sand – a caricature of a government official, rotund and oblivious, planting a single, pathetic sapling while a dust storm raged behind him. The cartoon, a desperate cry against the ineffectual desertification policies, was a reflection of Omar’s own experiences. Omar, a young pastoralist from a once-thriving village nestled near the edge of the Sahara, had witnessed firsthand the creeping encroachment of the desert. His grandfather, a man who spoke of lush grasslands and abundant water sources, now rested under a meager patch of parched earth. The government's 'Green Wall' initiative, lauded internationally for its ambition, had fallen short in Omar's region. Promises of sustainable agriculture and water management had been drowned out by the relentless wind and the ever-expanding sands. The cartoon, a testament to Omar's frustration and disillusionment, went viral online. It sparked a national conversation about the failures of the government's approach and the devastating consequences of unchecked desertification. The depiction of the oblivious official, though exaggerated, resonated with many who had suffered similar losses. The satirical commentary, however, was not without its risks. Omar faced potential repercussions for his criticism of the government’s policies. Despite the risks, Omar continued his work, documenting the environmental changes and the human cost of the government's neglect. He hoped that by sharing his experiences through his art and activism, he could raise awareness and pressure for a more effective response. He knew the fight was far from over, but the resilience of his people and the power of his art gave him a sliver of hope amidst the encroaching desert.
1. What is the primary purpose of the satirical cartoon drawn by Omar?
2. What is the significance of Omar’s grandfather’s story in the context of the passage?
3. What can be inferred about the potential consequences Omar faces for his actions?
4. What is the overall tone of the passage?