First Lady Margaret Kenyatta (right) unveils the Wangari Mutu Maathai house layout at Museums of Kenya, Nairobi, on Friday. [PHOTO: PSCU]

First Lady Margaret Kenyatta has urged Kenyans to champion causes that transform society to make the country a better place.

She also called for the promotion of strong values  among the youth.

The First Lady said this as she rooted for advancement of the legacy of the late Nobel Laureate and world-famous environmentalist Wangari Maathai.

“Prof Maathai did her part and we honour her for it. It’s our turn to advance Maathai’s legacy,” the First Lady said. She spoke during the Wangari Maathai Foundation launch and tribute Gala Dinner at the Nairobi National Museum on Friday evening. The dinner also marks creation of an eco-friendly Wangari Maathai House to serve as a hub for global catalysts for change.

“We need to emulate the courage, resolve, tenacity and vision of the change-agents to build a movement of young and old willing to fight with their head and with their heart; with intellect, and innovation, with consistency, care and compassion,” she added.

The First Lady said Maathai epitomised courage in the pursuit of public good.

The Foundation Chairperson, Wanjira Maathai, said they would focus on a five-year strategy modelled on the work and lessons of of the Nobel Laureate to provide a vibrant forum to mentor youths.