Wangari Maathai was a Kenyan environmental and political activist who founded the Green Belt Movement, an environmental organization focused on reforestation, conservation, and women's rights. In 2004, Maathai became the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize for "her contribution to sustainable development, democracy and peace." For a selection of books to help encourage children's environmental awareness, visit our special feature on the Top Children's Books on the Environment. For Mighty Girl stories set in Africa, visit our Africa section within World Regions.