President William Ruto, along with four other prominent Kenyans, has been named in the Independent Climate 100 List 2024, which highlights global leaders in environmental conservation. The list, published by the British newspaper The Independent during Climate Week in New York City, features the 100 most influential figures driving climate action worldwide.

Joining President Ruto on the prestigious list are Wanjira Mathai, daughter of Nobel laureate Wangari Maathai, climate activist Mithika Mwenda, entrepreneur Charlot Magayi, and Kenyan-American climate leader Wawa Gatheru.

President Ruto was recognized for his leadership in advancing Kenya’s renewable energy sector, with significant focus on geothermal, wind, and solar power. Under his leadership, Kenya hosted the first Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi in September 2024, which resulted in a united call for greater financial commitments from major polluters to support vulnerable nations. Additionally, Ruto introduced an annual tree-planting holiday, part of a national goal to plant 15 billion trees over the next decade.

Wanjira Mathai was acknowledged for her work with the Green Belt Movement, which has facilitated the planting of over 51 million trees in Kenya since 1977. She also leads the World Resources Institute Africa, empowering female entrepreneurs and advocating for climate justice, especially in global financing.

Mithika Mwenda, co-founder of the Pan-African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA), was highlighted for his advocacy in shaping African climate policy. PACJA unites more than 70 organizations across the continent to address the climate crisis with solutions tailored to Africa’s unique needs.

Charlot Magayi, who grew up in the Mukuru slums in Nairobi, was celebrated for inventing a clean biomass stove that cuts pollution by 90%. Her company, Mukuru Stoves, sold over 400,000 units in 2023, earning her the prestigious Earthshot Prize. Magayi is now working on a 30,000-square-foot clean energy campus in Kenya to develop more sustainable fuels.

Wawa Gatheru, a Kenyan-American climate activist, was recognized for founding Black Girl Environmentalist, an organization supporting women of color in climate activism. Her work has made her a leading voice for inclusivity in the global environmental movement.

This recognition places these five Kenyans at the forefront of global efforts to combat climate change and create sustainable futures for their communities and beyond.