22-year-old environmental activist Truphena Muthoni has successfully completed her ambitious 72-hour continuous tree-hugging challenge on December 11, 2025, outside the Nyeri governor’s office, potentially setting a new Guinness World Record.
Endurance for a Cause
Muthoni launched the marathon on Monday, December 8, 2025, aiming to surpass her previous Guinness-recognized record of 48 hours set in February 2025 at Nairobi’s Michuki Memorial Park.
Throughout the three days, she maintained constant contact with an indigenous tree, enduring heavy rains, chilly nights, physical fatigue, and no food, water, or breaks.
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She described the effort as therapeutic and a silent protest against deforestation. “Hugging trees is therapeutic, and we have a lot of mental health crises across the world directly linked to environmental degradation,” Muthoni explained.
Support from Activists and Leaders
Fellow activists kept her spirits high with a rotating playlist of uplifting music in various genres. Supporters, including residents who traveled from across Kenya, gathered to cheer her on.
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga and Deputy David Kinaniri Waroe officiated the start and visited during the challenge. “Wow, that’s impressive,” Kahiga said, praising her stamina.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua offered strong encouragement: “Truphena Muthoni, push on my daughter... Your 72-hour challenge is a great reminder that the world needs to take care of our common home.”
Pan-Africanist PLO Lumumba also visited the site on December 10, providing motivation as she pushed past the 48-hour mark.
Broader Impact
At the 48-hour milestone, Muthoni hugged the tree blindfolded for nearly three hours to highlight climate injustices faced by people with disabilities.
The challenge sparked a social media trend, with Kenyans sharing tree-hugging videos in solidarity. Rewards included a fully sponsored coastal holiday from Bonfire Adventures CEO Simon Kabu.
Muthoni’s feat draws comparisons to Wangari Maathai’s legacy, emphasizing grassroots conservation, indigenous tree protection, and nature’s role in mental health healing.
As Guinness verification awaits, her completion on December 11—eve of Jamhuri Day—marks a powerful statement on perseverance and planetary care.
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