The African leader known for advocating for education and women's rights was Wangari Maathai. As a prominent Kenyan environmental and political activist, she founded the Green Belt Movement, promoting sustainable development and women's empowerment through tree planting. Maathai was the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004, recognizing her contributions to environmental conservation, social justice, and gender equality. Her efforts have inspired global movements toward both ecological sustainability and women's rights.