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Maathai, the first African woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, in 2004, was founder of the Green Belt Movement. This movement works at reforesting Kenya, stopping soil erosion and providing firewood for families by paying poor women to plant trees. She passed away on Sep. 25.
Throughout the African continent, trees and forests are being harvested for firewood and timber. Many nations are experiencing the results and side-effects of deforestation and loss of vegetation in the form of torrential flooding (resulting in loss of life and property), land being washed away, warmer temperatures etc. |
A vivid depiction of deforestation and its impact can be seen a new movie OKA!. In this movie, the Bayaka Pygmies of Central Africa live in harmony with their environment, but this serenity is threatened mercilessly by deforestation and poachers. Visit the Facebook page for more info: www.facebook.com/OKAMovie
Maathai left behind a great legacy and recommended actions that must be implemented to reverse this trend. A failure to do this would affect all - including the poorest of the poor who depend on the environment and natural resources. Recommended actions by Maathai and the movement include the sustained use and planting of more trees, the setting up and application of environmental laws and laws governing commerce in natural resources, addressing of land grabbing, and sustainable charcoal production. Following these actions will regreen Africa and preserve the environment for future generations.
