Reading 1
Answer the following questions briefly. 1.
Ans: Wangari Maathai received worldwide recognition for being awarded the 2004 Nobel Peace Prize and for her work in founding the Green Belt Movement, which planted 30 million trees and promoted environmental conservation and democracy.
2.
Ans: Wangari Maathai wanted to assist the earth by planting trees and promoting environmental conservation. She believed in healing the earth's wounds and embracing its diversity, beauty, and wonder.
3.
Ans: One major hurdle that Wangari Maathai faced on her way to achieving her mission was opposition from the government. The Green Belt Movement faced challenges because they not only planted trees but also advocated for citizens' rights and better governance, which the government did not appreciate.
4.
Ans: The rural women in Kenya faced problems like a lack of energy from firewood, insufficient clean drinking water, and malnutrition due to a shift from food crops to cash crops. Wangari Maathai arrived at the solution of tree planting to address these issues, as trees could provide fuel, building materials, fruits, shade, and also offer a source of income for the women.
5.
Ans: The chief cause of malnutrition in Kenya was the shift from food crops to cash crops like coffee and tea for international markets. This was linked to environmental degradation because it led to deforestation, which in turn affected the availability of clean water and contributed to the malnutrition problem.
6.
Ans: According to Wangari Maathai, trees have various important uses. They provide a source of fuel, materials for building and fencing, fruits, fodder, shade, and contribute to aesthetic beauty. Additionally, trees offered women an opportunity to earn income through the Green Belt Movement's seedling program.
7.
Ans: Environmental health and good governance were linked because Wangari Maathai believed that in order to have a clean and healthy environment, there needed to be a democratic government that respected and protected citizens' rights. Without citizens acknowledging and demanding their rights, a clean environment could not be achieved. Additionally, conflicts could arise over resources if there was not proper governance.
8.
Ans: Wangari Maathai did not give up on her task because she believed that it was possible to break the cycle of poverty and disempowerment through their efforts. She was also encouraged by the success of their tree-planting campaign, as they saw positive change with each planted tree.
9.
Ans: Wangari Maathai expressed her intention to use a significant portion of her prize money (from the Nobel Peace Prize) to establish the Wangari Maathai Foundation. This foundation would provide support for groups both in Kenya and abroad to continue the work she had started. She emphasized that there was still much work to be done to improve the world.
Reading 2
Answer the following questions.
1.
Ans: Trees are crucial for the well-being of our planet and all living beings. They play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity. Trees provide oxygen, which is essential for human and animal survival, and they absorb carbon dioxide, helping to combat climate change. Additionally, trees offer habitat and food for various species of wildlife. They prevent soil erosion, purify air and water, and provide valuable resources like wood for shelter and fuel. Trees also enhance the beauty of our natural landscapes and contribute to a sense of tranquility in our environment. Their significance cannot be overstated, as they are integral to the health and sustainability of our planet.
2.
Ans: Wangari Maathai's efforts were interconnected in a profound way. By addressing environmental degradation through tree planting, she tackled the root cause of many problems. Healthy forests led to cleaner air and water, benefiting human health. Additionally, advocating for environmental conservation and citizens' rights challenged the government to be more accountable and transparent, contributing to good governance. This, in turn, fostered an environment of peace and stability, as a well-governed society is less likely to experience conflicts over resources. Therefore, Wangari Maathai's work exemplifies how addressing environmental issues can have far-reaching positive effects on various aspects of society.
3.
Ans: I stand before you today to champion a remarkable individual, Wangari Maathai, as the most deserving candidate for the Nobel Prize. Her tireless dedication to environmental conservation and democracy has transformed lives, not only in Kenya but across the globe. Through the Green Belt Movement, she empowered rural women to plant 30 million trees, providing countless benefits to communities and ecosystems. Wangari Maathai boldly challenged oppressive governance, advocating for citizens' rights and a cleaner, healthier environment. Her vision has united these critical elements, proving that environmental health and good governance are inseparable. By honoring Wangari Maathai with the Nobel Prize, we acknowledge her extraordinary contributions and inspire generations to continue the important work she started.
4.
Ans: If given the opportunity to join the Wangari Maathai Foundation, I would be dedicated to carrying forward Wangari's inspiring legacy. I would actively participate in tree-planting initiatives, working with communities to restore and protect natural habitats. Additionally, I would advocate for environmental education and awareness, empowering individuals to take responsibility for their surroundings. Collaborating with like-minded organizations and advocating for policies that prioritize environmental sustainability and good governance would also be a priority. By continuing Wangari's mission, we can make a meaningful impact on the health of our planet and the well-being of all its inhabitants.
