Wangari Maathai - Your Legacy Lives On!

Conglatulating Wangari during award of Sophie Price Oslo Norway

Professor Wangari Maathai though gone she lived a life full of achievements and controversy and will be remember for decades to come. She dominated the Kenyan political arena like no other woman has ever done. She also scored many firsts in her life: The first woman to attain a Doctorate degree in Kenya if not East Africa; The first Woman with the title Professor in Kenya; The first woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Price in Africa; only to mention the most prominent achievements.

In controversy she was as elegant as in her achievements. She shook the political scene when she opposed the building of the tallest building in Nairobi Uhuru Park by the KANU government of Former President Moi. No amount of insults and harassment by the government could deter her. Through her campaigns, she drew massive support locally and internationally that finally compelled the government to relent and abandon the project.

Celebrating Sophie Price Award Oslo Noway

Wangari Maathai did not shy from controversy especially when she believed in the goodness of the cause. In 1992, she joined and supported the Mothers of political prisoners who had camped in the Uhuru Park Freedom Corner when other prominent women in Kenya could not dare. For this and her numerous political, social and economic struggles makes her the Heroine of the Second Liberation in Kenya.

Wangari Maathai, however, will be remembered most for her love and struggle for the environment. Her Green Belt Movement and tree planting campaign will live forever.

The greatest tribute we can bestow Wangari Maathai is whenever you see a tree, remember Wangari. At the same time, whenever we  plant a tree in her honor we will perpetuate her legacy.