Since 2000, the 3rd of March was called ?Africa Environment Day?, now Heads of State voted for it to be a day to remember and celebrate Professor Maathai and her lifelong commitment to good governance, environmental responsibility and peace.

At the first annual Wangari Maathai Day and celebrations will take place in countries across Africa. The day?s events will focus on celebrating her accomplishments and to mobilize people in order to overcome the environmental challenges to help ensure a better future for all. This year the Government of Chad will host celebrations and the key focus will be on 'Saving Lake Chad', one of the continental lakes facing the threat of drying up as a result of the worsening effects of climate change and desertification.

In Kenya , Jane Goodall Roots & Shoots-Kenya,the Green Belt Movement will celebrated event by hosting a tree planting event on March 21st at Freedom Corner in Uhuru Park, a special place for Wangari during her lifetime and in remembrance. As the 21st of March also marks the World Forest Day, the event will be held together with the Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife, the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and others who have come together to celebrate these two happenings