WUNRN
Wangari
Muta Maathai - Leader for Environment, Rights - (1940-2011)
It is with great sadness that
the family of Professor Wangari Maathai announces her passing away on 25th
September, 2011, at the Nairobi Hospital, after a prolonged and bravely borne
struggle with cancer. Her loved ones were with her at the time.
Professor Maathai’s departure is untimely and a very great loss to all who knew
her—as a mother, relative, co-worker, colleague, role model, and heroine; or
who admired her determination to make the world a more peaceful, healthier, and
better place.
Photo
of Wangari Muta Maathai Via WEDO
Prof. Wangari Muta Maathai started the Green Belt Movement in 1977, working
with women to improve their livelihoods by increasing their access to resources
like firewood for cooking and clean water. She became a great advocate for
better management of natural resources and for sustainability, equity, and
justice. A synopsis
of her life and work can be read here.
Prof. Maathai leaves her three children—Waweru, Wanjira, and Muta—and a
granddaughter, Ruth Wangari. They are truly very grateful for all the prayers
and support they have received.
Further information on how Prof’s life will be celebrated, where to share
memories and condolences, and how to join us to build her legacy for
generations to come will be provided shortly.
Read the tributes from world leaders to Professor Maathai here.
The Green Belt Movement has established a memorial fund to help the
organization continue the amazing legacy of Wangari Maathai.