The Green Belt Movement, a programme initiated by Professor Wangari Maathai and the National Council of Women of Kenya (NCWK), performs a double duty in organising the planting of trees. It both reduces the effects of deforestation and provides a forum for women to be creative and effective leaders. Working with Green Belt gives women the ability to change their environment and make their own decisions. The movement also involves the transfer of technology from experts to the people, turning small scale farmers into agro-foresters. Ideally, public awareness is raised on issues related to environment and development, and meetings related to tree planting activities encompass discussions on the relationships between food, population and energy. Professor Wangari Maathai received the 2004 Nobel Peace Prize for her work with the Green Belt Movement.
