Truphena Muthoni: The Meaning Behind the Activist's 17 Braids

During a recent interview on Citizen TV hosted by Jeff Koinange and Mashirima Kapombe, environmental activist Truphena offered insight into the deeper meaning behind her distinctive braided hairstyle.

Far from a fashion choice, she explained that her hair represents a deliberate expression of sustainability, global advocacy, and political resistance.

Appearing on the programme, Truphena used the opportunity to outline how her personal appearance aligns with her broader activism, particularly around environmental conservation and social justice.

Seventeen Braids, Global Significance

Truphena revealed that her hairstyle consists of exactly 17 braids, a number she said was intentionally chosen to reflect the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Speaking during the interview, she stated, “These are first of all they’re 17 to represent the 17 SDGs,” linking her hair directly to internationally recognised development targets that address poverty, inequality, climate action, and sustainable growth.

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The explanation prompted an immediate reaction from the hosts, who acknowledged the global relevance of the symbolism. The SDGs, adopted by UN member states in 2015, serve as a shared blueprint for addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges worldwide.

Sustainability Through Reuse

Beyond the numerical symbolism, Truphena explained that her hairstyle forms part of a sustainability fashion campaign rooted in reuse and waste reduction. The materials woven into her braids, she said, are largely recycled.

“These are waste. These are yarn scraps and I’ve been reusing them for the longest time,” she told the hosts. According to Truphena, some of the materials have been in use for several years.

She confirmed that the green yarn incorporated into her hair has been reused for four years, while other materials she purchased have been reused for at least one year.

By continuously reusing the same materials, Truphena said she aims to demonstrate practical approaches to sustainability and conscious consumption.

Colors as Advocacy Symbols

Truphena also detailed the meaning behind the different colors used in her braids, explaining that each shade represents a specific cause or form of resistance.

Black, she noted, stands for African power, protest, and resilience. Red symbolizes indigenous resistance and the courage of frontline communities.

Green represents reforestation, regeneration, and hope, reflecting her environmental advocacy and commitment to ecological renewal.

Blue, she explained, is associated with water protectors and ocean defenders, highlighting the importance of safeguarding water ecosystems.

Activism Woven Into Identity

Through her hairstyle, Truphena said she seeks to merge personal identity with activism, using everyday presentation as a platform for awareness.

Her appearance, she explained, allows her to communicate messages about sustainability, justice, and environmental responsibility without words, reinforcing her advocacy work in public spaces.The interview offered viewers a closer look at how symbolism, sustainability, and activism intersect in her daily life.