Elizabeth Wathuti’s tireless work as a climate and environmental activist has earned her recognition on the global stage. Recently, she was awarded the Amnesty International Chair award by Ghent University in Belgium in honor of her exceptional contributions to human rights worldwide.
The award is a testament to Wathuti’s commitment to advocating for the environment and raising awareness about the pressing issues facing our planet. As a leading voice in the fight against climate change, Wathuti has been vocal about the devastating effects of environmental degradation and the urgent need for action to protect the earth and its inhabitants.
In addition to the award, Wathuti was given the opportunity to make a public address in Ghent, where she shared her insights on the importance of environmental activism and the role that individuals can play in creating positive change.
During her address, she emphasized the importance of working together to create a more sustainable future, and urged people to take action to protect the environment, even if the effects of climate change are not yet visible in their own communities.
“By giving me this award, Amnesty International and the University of Ghent are recognising our common cause. We are all defenders of a dignified life. We are all defenders of this beautiful planet that we call home. The work that I do is deeply rooted in nature,” she said.
During her public address in Belgium, Wathuti paid tribute to Maathai’s vision of a world where people are connected to the environment and work together to create a more sustainable future. She echoed Maathai’s call for a new level of consciousness and hope in the face of the environmental crisis, urging people to come together to make positive change.
“This evening, I’m reminded of these great words from Professor Wangari Maathai, “In the Course of History, there comes a time when humanity is called to shift to a new level of consciousness, to reach the higher moral ground. A time when we have to shed our fear and give hope to each other. That time is now,” she said.
Overall, Elizabeth Wathuti’s recognition by Ghent University and Amnesty International is a well-deserved honor that highlights her dedication to environmental activism and her unwavering commitment to creating a better world for all.