THE WANGARI MAATHAI CASE AS A PANACEA FOR NON-STATE ACTOR INFLUENCE IN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND POLICY IN ZIMBABWE

Abstract

Wangari Maathai’s interest in environmental protection transcended and went beyond the environment to include political and social activism. This culminated in international recognition of her work and efforts resulting in the formation of the Green Belt Movement and being named the 2004 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate. The Green Belt Movement has over the years, impacted global policy and frameworks guiding environmental protection and political and social activism, leaving a permanent on civil society engagement on matters that seek to promote and protect the environment, and campaign for human rights not only in Kenya but across the globe. This has influenced other similar-minded civil society organisations to campaign for environmental protection and instil the spirit of environmental activism, thereby putting environmental protection and promotion of awareness at the forefront of sustainable development. For her sterling work, Wangari was honoured with an honorary doctorate degree and a professorial recognition.