Wangari Maathai
1940 – 2011
Who was Wangari Maathai?
Wangari Maathai (1940–2011) was a Kenyan environmental and political activist. She founded the Green Belt Movement, which has planted tens of millions of trees, and in 2004 became the first African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize.
Key Achievement
Founded the Green Belt Movement and mobilized the planting of over 30 million trees across Africa
Her story
Wangari Muta Maathai was a renowned Kenyan social, environmental, and political activist who founded the Green Belt Movement, an environmental non-governmental organization focused on tree planting, environmental conservation, and women's rights. Born in Nyeri, Kenya, she became the first woman in East and Central Africa to earn a doctoral degree. Through her grassroots movement, she mobilized women to plant over 30 million trees across Africa, combating deforestation and empowering communities. Her work connected environmental conservation with democracy, peace, and women's rights. In 2004, she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her contribution to sustainable development, democracy, and peace, becoming the first African woman to receive this honor. She also served in the Kenyan parliament and as Assistant Minister for Environment and Natural Resources.
Questions people ask about Wangari Maathai
What is Wangari Maathai known for?
She founded the Green Belt Movement in 1977, mobilising women in Kenya to plant trees to fight deforestation and earn an income. The movement has planted over 30 million trees.
Why did Wangari Maathai win the Nobel Peace Prize?
She won the 2004 Nobel Peace Prize for her contribution to sustainable development, democracy and peace. She was the first African woman to receive it.
Was Wangari Maathai the first woman in East Africa with a PhD?
Yes. In 1971 she became the first woman in East and Central Africa to earn a doctorate, from the University of Nairobi.
What book did Wangari Maathai write?
Her memoir 'Unbowed' was published in 2006.
Sources & further reading
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