Wangari Maathai
When deforestation in Kenya caused landslides, frequent droughts, soil erosion and the loss of vital resources for communities, Wangari Maathai understood there was a connection between environmental degradation and poverty.
In response, the environment activist created the Green Belt Movement in 1977, initially to help rural Kenyan women to plant trees. By doing so, the women were able to bind the soil, store rainwater, increase their food supply and grow their own firewood. Through the simple act of planting trees, the grassroots organisation empowers communities to improve their livelihoods and protect the enviroment. Now, the Green Belt Movement has led to 11 billion trees being planted worldwide, and trained more than 30,000 women in conservation trades that help them earn an income.
It was rare for girls in Kenya to go to school in the 1940s but in spite of this, Wangari started school when she was eight and went on to excel in her studies. In the 1960s, she got the opportunity to study biological sciences in the USA through a scholarship programme, and she later became the first woman from East and Central Africa to earn a doctoral degree.
After many years fighting for democratic rights, Wangari was elected as a member of the Kenyan parliament, winning 95 per cent of the votes. She represented her constituency in Tetu from 2002 to 2007, and also served as Assistant Minister for Environment and Natural Resources between 2003 and 2005.
As Wangari continued to be an advocate for the environment and women’s rights, she faced multiple arrests and threats. Former Kenyan President Daniel Moi said she was “a mad woman who was a serious threat to the stability of the country”. Even her husband described her as “too educated, too strong-minded, and too successful”.
Wangari’s efforts did not go unnoticed though. In 2004, she became the first female African to win the Noble Peace Prize. Wangari is a truly inspiring example of how grassroots activism can make a real impact.