Green Belt Movement
OrganizationAbout
The Green Belt Movement (GBM) is a grassroots organization founded by Professor Wangari Maathai in 1977 under the National Council of Women of Kenya. It empowers communities, particularly women, to conserve the environment and improve livelihoods through tree planting and environmental conservation. GBM's work addresses deforestation, soil erosion, and climate change by promoting sustainable resource management and community empowerment. GBM operates through key programs such as tree planting, civic education, and advocacy for environmental justice and women's rights. It has planted over 51 million trees and trained thousands of women in forestry and income-generating activities. The movement advocates for democratic space and accountability, fighting against land grabbing and environmental degradation. Maathai's leadership earned her the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004, highlighting GBM's global impact on environmental conservation and community development.
