My Reflections on Prof. Wangari Maathai: Wangari Maathai Institute

The College held its fourth webinar on 4th November, 2020  as University of Nairobi celebrates 50 years of academic excellence. The main Speaker was Prof. Stephen Kiama, the Vice-Chancellor and three other panelists; Ms. Marion Kamau - Chair of the Board, the Green Belt Movement – Kenya, Prof. R. G. Wahome - Department of Animal Production and Prof. Karanja Njoroge, Centre for Environmental Action. Prof. Stephen Kiama,  gave keynote presentation of the various works of the Late Prof. Wangari Maathai and the thinking behind the formation of Wangari Maathai Institute including the various community driven interventions in peace and environmental conservation.

Prof. Wahome further discussed the history of Wangari Maathai Institute and a detailed explanation  on the conceptualization of the academic programmes offered at the WMI. Ms. Marion Kamau, emphasized on the need to continue being mindful of every member of the community and the role they play in conservation and advocacy, noting a strong linkage between environment and peace. Prof. Karanja while reflecting on the idea behind establishment of the WMI pointed out that it is important to share all the knowledge developed by scholars with the communities at the grassroot level and empower them to be better change agents.