Authors:
  • I stand before you and the world humbled by this recognition and uplifted by the honour of being the 2004 Nobel Peace Laureate. As the first African woman to receive this prize, I accept it on behalf of the people of Kenya and Africa, and indeed the world. I am especially mindful of women and the girl child. I hope it will encourage them to raise their voices and take more space for leadership.

    Wangari Maathai's Nobel lecture at the City Hall in Oslo, Norway, www.nobelprize.org. December 10, 2004.