2011 Statement Ministry for Foreign Affairs 28 September 2011 Gunilla Carlsson, Minister for International Development Cooperation Andreas Carlgren, Minister for the Environment Gunilla Carlsson and Andreas Carlgren on the death of Wangari Maathai "It was with great sorrow that I learned of the death of the Nobel Peace Laureate Wangari Maathai. Wangari Maathai was a pioneer in the work for gender equality, democracy, climate and the environment, in Africa and the world,"says Minister for International Development Cooperation Gunilla Carlsson on the occasion of the death of Wangari Maathai. "Wangari Maathai was a strong champion of the environment. Her death is a loss for Kenya, Africa and the world. Her intense commitment for gender equality and the environment left a deep impression on me every time we met. Her grass roots work has been an inspiration to many people," says Minister for the Environment Andreas Carlgren. Facts about Professor Wangari Maathai Professor Wangari Maathai received the 2004 Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts on behalf of women's rights, democracy, the climate and the environment. Here is the jury's citation: Peace on earth is dependent on safeguarding our living environment. Professor Maathai is at the forefront in fighting for the environment, democracy and women's rights. Professor Maathai was Minister for the Environment in Kenya from 2003 to 2005 and the first woman in East Africa to hold a PhD. She played an important role as an advocate of democracy in Kenya. Professor Maathai also received the alternative peace prize, the Right Livelihood Award, for her climate and gender equality work..