Abstract
Abstract : This study is an attempt to evaluate the life and work of Wangari Maathai (1949-2011) using the lens of Dark Green Religion (DGR). Wangari Maathai received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004 for her environmental activism, starting in her native Kenya and spreading globally. She initiated the planting of trees in an effort to combat the environmental degradation severely impacting on the lives of rural women in Kenya. She encouraged the planting of trees since they provide in the basic needs of the community, enabling them to sustain themselves and achieve a better quality of life, while restoring their environment. The Green Belt Movement established by Maathai succeeded in planting more than 30 million trees across Kenya, but the movement also became involved in issues of social justice. Maathai strove to demonstrate that a link exists between the environment, peace and democratic governance. The recognition she received from the Nobel Peace Prize committee reflects an acknowledgement of this aspect of her advocacy...
M.A. (Biblical Studies)