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51 million Trees Planted Across Africa

Wanjira Mathai and the Green Belt Movement: A Beacon of Ecological Restoration.

Since 1977, the Green Belt Movement, founded by Wangari Maathai, has expanded under Wanjira Mathai’s leadership to plant over 51 million trees. The movement has grown into a grassroots force for environmental conservation, economic development, and social change across Africa.

In 2023, the AFR100 initiative, led by Mathai, achieved the restoration of 30 million hectares of degraded land, enhancing biodiversity, water security, and soil fertility while fostering economic opportunities for local communities.

Women Leading the Renewable Energy Transition

Empowering Women through the wPOWER Program

Mathai has championed renewable energy entrepreneurship for African women through the wPOWER program, providing training to over 5,000 women. These entrepreneurs promote solar power and sustainable energy solutions, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and improving energy access in underserved regions.

Reviving Africa’s Degraded Landscapes

AFR100 Initiative: Breathing Life into the Land

As Global Partnerships Director at WRI Africa, Wanjira Mathai leads the AFR100 initiative, which collaborates with 31 African nations to restore 100 million hectares of degraded land by 2030. To date, 30 million hectares have been restored, creating jobs, enhancing livelihoods, and boosting agricultural productivity.

Reviving Africa’s Degraded Landscapes

AFR100 Initiative: Breathing Life into the Land

As Global Partnerships Managing Director at WRI Africa, Wanjira Mathai leads the AFR100 initiative, which collaborates with 31 African nations to restore 100 million hectares of degraded land by 2030. To date, 30 million hectares have been restored, creating jobs, enhancing livelihoods, and boosting agricultural productivity.