Who's Who in Taking Root

Wangari Maathai

Founder of the Green Belt Movement of Kenya who, in 2004, became the first environmentalist and first African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize.

Lilian Wanjiru Njehu

Member of Kanyariri Mother's Union Tree Nursery, the first Green Belt Movement community group to start a tree nursery. Lilian is also a close friend of Wangari’s and was instrumental in keeping her safe during the years when Wangari’s life was in danger.

Kamoji Wachiira

Formerly associate professor at the Kenyatta University, botanist and ecologist, long-time democracy/human rights and environmental activist. Arrested and jailed twice by former President Moi's regime in June 1982. Finally imprisoned in July 1982 for three years without trial. Adopted as a prisoner of conscience by Amnesty International in 1982 and later named Prisoner of the Month for July 1983. Granted asylum in Canada in late1988 where he lives and works - as well as continuing to advocate for environmental conservation and democratic reforms in both Kenya and Africa.

Vertistine Mbaya

Green Belt Movement founding board member; long-time friend and colleague of Wangari Maathai's at the University of Nairobi.

Ngorongo Makanga

A pharmacist by trade; member of the pro-democracy movement and cofounder, with Wangari Maathai, of the Green Party in Kenya.

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