Environmentalist Truphena Muthoni being awarded full academic scholarship by Professor Peter Wanderi, Principal – Corporate Services, December 18, 2025. /JOHN MUCHUCHA
Mt Kenya University has awarded a full academic scholarship to environmentalist Truphena Muthoni, recognising her extraordinary commitment to environmental conservation and mental well‑being advocacy through symbolic, endurance‑based activism.
The scholarship will enable Muthoni to begin her studies at MKU in January 2026, marking a significant milestone in her journey from grassroots activist to formally trained environmental champion.
The scholarship was formally presented by Professor Peter Wanderi, Principal – Corporate Services, on behalf of MKU Vice‑Chancellor Professor Deogratius Jaganyi.
The scholarship, awarded would enable her to pursue university education in environmental studies or related fields.
“The studies will empower her to continue inspiring youth to take active roles in environmental conservation,” said Prof. Peter Wanderi when he presented Muthoni with the award on behalf of MKU VC Prof Deogratius Jaganyi.
Prof Wanderi noted that the “scholarship offered through the MKU Foundation, supports young people who go above and beyond in their endeavors. Truphena exemplifies this spirit of dedication and innovation”.
The scholarship is inline with MKU’s quest to empower communities and improve the environment. During its 28th graduation ceremony, the university said it is implementing a Sh100 million alumni grant programme over a 10 year period that will support its past students further excel in different fields.
The first beneficiary of the grant was Lawrence Lorunyei Ekiru, who received Sh6.5 million that is expected to further help him advance a peace building and economic empowerment programme within the Turkana, Samburu and Pokot communities.
The MKU Alumni Extra-Mile Recognition is aimed at encouraging the “Gesture of Mount Kenya University Alumni Extra-Mile” support to the community and their sterling contribution to the society.
“Moving forward into the future, the Board has set aside Sh100 million for the appreciation of our Alumni. This is a grant to keep MKU’s alumni doing what they are doing in a better way,” said Prof Simon Gicharu the founder and chairman MKU when he announced the programme.
Environmentalist Truphena Muthoni being awarded full academic scholarship by Professor Peter Wanderi, Principal – Corporate Services, December 18, 2025. /JOHN MUCHUCHA
In affirming the award, MKU highlighted Muthoni’s exceptional community impact and dedication to environmental stewardship as central criteria for the support, aligning with the university’s strategic commitment to empowering environmental leaders and promoting sustainable development through education.
Muthoni’s recognition follows her recent Guinness World Record‑breaking achievement for the longest continuous tree hug, during which she maintained unbroken physical contact with an indigenous tree for 72 hours at the Nyeri Governor’s Office grounds.
The feat, completed in December 11, 2025, drew widespread public attention and celebration, with onlookers commending her resilience, discipline and the broader message she sought to amplify about forest conservation and climate change awareness.
Environmentalist Truphena Muthoni replicates her record breaking tree-hugging experience with staff at Mt Kenya University, December 18, 2025. /JOHN MUCHUCHA
Environmentalist Truphena Muthoni replicates her record breaking tree-hugging experience with Professor Peter Wanderi, Principal – Corporate Services at Mt Kenya University, December 18, 2025. /POLL
This record surpasses her earlier 48‑hour world record, which was set at Michuki Memorial Park in Nairobi and officially ratified by Guinness World Records.
The earlier achievement also served to spotlight the importance of environmental action and emotional well‑being, themes that have become central to her advocacy.
Environmentalist Truphena Muthoni replicates her record breaking tree-hugging experience at Mt Kenya University, December 18, 2025. /JOHN MUCHUCHA
State Recognition and Ambassadorial Role
Muthoni advocates for tree planting, forest conservation and community engagement for sustainable environmental practices. In recognition of her environmental conservation and advocacy of United Nations 17 SDGs.
In a high-profile acknowledgment of her work on December 15, President William Ruto hosted Muthoni at State House, Nairobi, where he conferred upon her the Head of State Commendation (HSC) medal for exemplary service to environmental stewardship.
The President also appointed Muthoni as Ambassador for the national 15 Billion Tree Planting Campaign, a cornerstone of Kenya’s environmental policy aimed at restoring forest cover and combating the adverse effects of climate change by 2032.
The appointment positions Muthoni at the forefront of grassroots mobilisation under the campaign, with an emphasis on engaging youth, community groups, and county governments in tree-planting drives and sustainable land-use practices.
The role reflects both government endorsement and a strategic effort to leverage her profile to elevate national participation in reforestation efforts.
Environmentalist Truphena Muthoni flanked by staff after planting a tree at Mt Kenya University, December 18, 2025. /JOHN MUCHUCHA
Beyond the ambassadorial title, Ruto’s recognition package includes a fully sponsored holiday for Muthoni and her team, facilitated through the Kenya Wildlife Service and the Kenya Tourism Board.
She will also get support from the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry to enable her travel internationally to gain exposure in conservation leadership and environmental education.
Muthoni’s continuous tree-hugging challenge — braving heavy rainfall, cold nights, and physical discomfort — has been widely interpreted as a symbolic act designed to capture public imagination and spark dialogue on the urgency of environmental protection.
Through these acts, she has intertwined physical endurance with environmental messaging, encouraging Kenyans and global audiences alike to rethink the relationship between human wellness and a thriving natural world.
MKU’s scholarship offer not only facilitates her academic advancement but also signals institutional recognition of unconventional advocacy as a valid pathway to leadership in environmental management and climate action.
As Muthoni prepares to begin her university education in 2026, her trajectory illustrates a growing intersection between youth-led advocacy, national policy frameworks, and institutional support aimed at fostering a new generation of environmental leaders committed to sustainable development and climate resilience.
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