Wangari Maathai Institute

The success of a tree is not that it is planted, but that it grows."

At the Wangari Maathai Institute, the initiative carries forward Prof. Wangari Maathai's vision by going beyond planting to nurturing trees and restoring landscapes.

Every thriving tree is a reminder that lasting change begins with small actions, sustained over time.

Which tree in your community would you love to see thrive for future generations?

Nema Kenya Kenya Forest Service United Nations Biodiversity University of Nairobi

The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is TODAY."

Every thriving tree began as a seedling that someone chose to care for.

Have you planted a tree this year? Tell us where in the comments. 👇
Nema Kenya United Nations Biodiversity Kenya Forest Service University of Nairobi Faculty of Science & Technology University of Nairobi Wangari Maathai

A simple tree can do what no machine can; cool the air, protect our water, restore biodiversity, and leave a legacy for generations to come.

As we mark the season of environmental action following World Environment Day, let us remember that conservation is not just about planting trees; it is about growing and nurturing them. Every seedling that survives is a promise to the future.

In the spirit of Prof. Wangari Maathai, continues restoring ecosystems, protecting indigenous species, and building a greener, more resilient Kenya .

Nema Kenya Kenya Forest Service University of Nairobi

May 22, The International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB)

What happens when communities stop waiting for change and start restoring the environment themselves?

Across Kenya, degraded landscapes are being transformed through indigenous tree growing, ecosystem restoration, and community-driven action under the initiative led by the Wangari Maathai Institute, Hearts of green organization together with partners.

From restoring mangroves and degraded lands to strengthening biodiversity and climate resilience, the initiative is proving that environmental restoration is not just about trees; it is about livelihoods, water security, healthier ecosystems, and a sustainable future for generations to come.

Inspired by the legacy of Prof. Wangari Maathai, the initiative continues to empower communities to become active custodians of nature through practical action and long-term stewardship.

“It’s the little things citizens do. That’s what will make the difference.” — Wangari Maathai

As the world prepares to mark the International Day for Biological Diversity on May 22, the message is clear: protecting nature is protecting our future.



Wangari Maathai Hearts of green organization United Nations Biodiversity Kenya Forest Service Nema Kenya University of Nairobi Thuita Thenya Muya Moses Environmentalist Gichure Kenya Forest Service

At Bonje Creek, restoration is no longer just an idea it is taking root.

Under the Landscape Repair and Transformation (LANSRET) Initiative, the Wangari Maathai Institute Hearts of green organization, together with the Coast Development Authority and the local community, carried out a mangrove-growing exercise aimed at restoring coastal ecosystems and strengthening climate resilience.

The exercise also provided an opportunity to inspect mangroves planted last year and the progress has been remarkable. The healthy growth and survival of the trees stand as clear evidence that restoration succeeds when communities are fully involved, not just during planting, but throughout the journey of nurturing and protecting ecosystems.

The local community has played a critical role in caring for the mangroves, demonstrating the power of collective stewardship in environmental restoration. Their commitment continues to transform Bonje Creek into a thriving ecological space that supports biodiversity, protects shorelines, and sustains livelihoods.

Mangrove ecosystems are among the world’s most important natural defenses against climate change, helping to absorb carbon, prevent coastal erosion, and provide breeding grounds for marine life. Through LANSRET, and its partners are advancing Prof. Wangari Maathai’s vision of restoring degraded landscapes through community-driven action and long-term environmental stewardship.

Together, we are not simply planting trees we are restoring ecosystems, strengthening communities, and growing a more resilient future for generations to come.
University of Nairobi Thuita Thenya
Muya MosesEnvironmentalist Gichure

The Landscape Repair and Transformation today joined the AIESEC student community from the University of Nairobi, , Chuka University and the Technical University of Kenya in planting 500 trees at Naiposha Gardens in Limuru. Other partners included Sanlam Insurance and Microsoft.

The exercise highlighted the role of young people in restoring landscapes and advancing sustainable livelihoods through collective climate action.

Speaking during the event on behalf of the LANSRET Project, Environmentalist Gichure, Head of Programs at Hearts of green organization, reflected on the words of Professor Wangari Maathai : “It’s the little things citizens do. That’s what will make the difference.”

She emphasized that restoration efforts must go beyond planting trees to nurturing ecosystems, empowering communities, and strengthening climate resilience through sustained environmental stewardship and partnerships.

The initiative emphasizes the importance of collective action in building greener communities, healthier ecosystems, and a more sustainable future.
Thuita Thenya Muya Moses Environmentalist Gichure

Rooted in Partnership; Growing a Legacy

What began as tree planting has grown into a powerful movement.

Through a sustained collaboration between the University of Nairobi WMI - Wangari Maathai Institute and Hearts of green organization , this journey continues to shape meaningful environmental action; rooted in community engagement and ecosystem restoration.

Now, this impact is taking on a new voice.
Under the LANSRET programme, KBC is documenting these efforts ahead of World Environment Day 2026;capturing the people, the process, and the purpose behind the work on the ground.

This is more than a documentary, this is legacy in motion; Wangari Maathai 's vision, living and growing.
KBC Channel 1 TV Thuita Thenya Environmentalist Gichure Muya Moses

The University of Nairobi , through the African Women's Studies Centre, UON in collaboration with the Faculty of Law, invites you to the inaugural Wangari Maathai Distinguished Lecture.

Held under the theme “Women, Land and Sustainable Futures: Leadership, Justice and Climate Action,” the lecture honours Wangari Maathai and explores strengthening sustainable in , with a focus on women’s land rights.

Friday, April 24, 2026
2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
UoN Towers, 4th Floor, Room 405
Hybrid (In-person & Online)
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/0e3JdCHvTw61FrASXB83OA #/registration

Join academia, policymakers, civil society, and partners including FAO Kenya in shaping inclusive, sustainable land governance.