The prize committee said that Kenyan environmentalist and human rights campaigner Wangari Maathai was an example for all Africans fighting for democracy and peace.

Last year the Iranian lawyer Shirin Ebadi was the first Muslim woman to get the prize.

Is Mrs Maathai an example for all Africans fighting for democracy and peace? Do you admire her work? Do you think the prize is loaded with political symbolism? Does the Nobel peace prize matter?

This debate is now closed. Read a selection of your comments below.

The following comments reflect the balance of opinion we have received so far:

Prof Maathai has provided renewed pride Linda, Chicago, USA

What a great day! At a time when Kenyans struggle to find something to be proud of, Prof Maathai has provided renewed pride and is proving that truly there is still a lot we have to be proud of. Her hard work has paid off and she makes me proud to have someone of her calibre serving in the Kenya parliament.
Linda, Chicago, USA

As a Kenyan, I am proud of what Professor Maathai has done in terms of fighting for the environment and human rights for Kenyans over the years. It is a well deserved prize.
James Matu, London, UK

Congratulations to Mrs Maathai! I, as a Kenyan living abroad, am very proud for her. It is indeed very encouraging to see recognition being given where recognition is due.
Salim Abha, Toronto, Canada

The awarding of this prize to Mrs Maathai acknowledges and encourages all the women working tirelessly away from the international spotlight to make our communities and countries a better place to live. I am inspired by her work and delighted by the international recognition. Go Kenya!
Elizabeth Karanja, Toronto, Canada

The conservation and maintenance of natural resources is an essential part of development Ernest Rukangira, Enfield, London

The Nobel Price that has been awarded to Wangari Maathai is recognition that the conservation and maintenance of natural resources is an essential part of development and poverty alleviation in Africa. Conserving and using natural resource sustainably is a key to feeding the millions of malnourished people in Africa. In the continent however, the perception remains in some quarters that environmental protection is something that can and should be addressed only when a country is rich enough to do so, and that it is a 'low rate of return' activity. Yet the evidence is mounting that local environmental destruction can accelerate the poverty spiral not only for future generations, but even for today's population.
Ernest Rukangira, Enfield, London

As a Norwegian I am proud of the integrity our Nobel Peace Price Committee stands for. It would be easy to pick a well known politician, but they are only doing their job and most of them are very well paid. By giving the award to Wangari Maathai they encourage many, many more in her situation.
Elias V�gnes, Langev�g, Norway

A wonderful choice. A Third World woman involved in saving the environment in Kenya. This can only help other African women become aware of their potential power. She shines like a beacon of light. Thanks to Mrs Maathai and to the committee for choosing her.
Donald and Sylvia Luke, Bradenton, Florida, USA

A cause to celebrate by all human rights campaigners Mentesnot Mengesha, London, UK

The award of the Nobel peace prize to Dr Wangari Maathai is a cause to celebrate by all human rights campaigners. The recognition of her work will strengthen the efforts of women for a just and sustainable society.
Mentesnot Mengesha, London, UK

Perhaps others in Africa will be inspired and do something positive for a change. And perhaps the women of Africa will begin to step forward in larger numbers and realise they can make a difference.
Krista, USA

No disrespect meant for the work of Mrs Maathai, which is outstanding; but I think many people around the world will feel that the Nobel committee has shied away from the hot issues of the moment by not giving the prize to the widely tipped favourites, the IAEA, its head Mohamed El Baradei, or its former head Hans Blix.
Simon, Amsterdam, Netherlands

This shows all those people who believe that Africa survives on handouts that there are forward thinking individuals who want to better their country by themselves. She is a credit to her country.
Sean, Bristol, England

The work of Wangari Maathai is proof that responsible leadership will be the only salvation for Africa. On a continent where very few politicians are truly championing a bright future for Africa's people she is a shining light.
Craig H, London, UK (ex-South Africa)

I have to admit that until today I had never heard of Mrs Maathai or her work, but I am always glad to hear of female firsts. Her work must be important and significant to have been recognised by such an esteemed organisation as Nobel and I hope the award will enable her to carry on her work for the African environment.
Sarah Allen, Somerset, UK