She only hugs trees, focus! MP says while introducing Truphena in Parliament

Members of the National Assembly were on Wednesday treated to a light moment as Gilgil MP Martha Wangari introduced Ambassador Truphena Muthoni, the Ambassador for the 15 billion Tree Planting Campaign.

The MP joked that legislators should stay focused, noting that environmental activist Truphena “only hugs trees,” while welcoming her to Parliament.

The humorous remark came as the House paused proceedings to recognise the 22-year-old conservationist and student at Mount Kenya University for her environmental advocacy.

“Before we proceed to the notices of motion, allow me, honourable members, to recognise Ms Truphena Muthoni, a Kenyan environmental conservationist and an advocate for climate action, sustainability and mental health awareness,” the MP said.

She noted that Truphena is a Guinness World Record holder for the longest marathon hugging a tree and currently serves as Kenya’s ambassador for the national campaign to plant 15 billion trees.

She also acknowledged that she was seated in the Speaker’s Gallery observing the proceedings before inviting MP Mark Mwenje to formally introduce her to the House.

MP Wangari injected humour into the proceedings, telling MPs who appeared amused by Muthoni's tree-hugging record to stay focused.

“I know most of you are asking whether you can be hugged. Truphena only hugs trees. Honourable members, don’t lose focus,” she said, prompting laughter in the chamber.

On January 30, t

Guinness World Records described Muthoni's feat as an act by a "passionate environmental activist from Kenya sending a strong message about protecting the Earth after hugging a tree for three whole days."

Mwenje congratulated the young activist, noting that she hails from Kariobangi South ward in his constituency.

“I think Truphena needs no better introduction than what you have already given, Honourable Speaker, and I congratulate her for what she has achieved,” Mwenje said.

He added that Muthoni would soon travel to Brazil to engage with indigenous communities and attempt another environmental awareness record.

“Truphena will be travelling to Brazil on March 22 to engage with indigenous communities, and she will be trying to set another record by hugging 1,172 trees within one hour, which means about two to three seconds per tree,” he told MPs.

Mwenje said that Truphena had been appointed by President William Ruto as an ambassador for the government’s campaign to plant 15 billion trees by 2032.

He urged lawmakers to support her efforts through tree-planting initiatives implemented in their constituencies through agencies such as the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA), the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) and the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA).

“This is a 22-year-old who needs your support,” Mwenje said as he welcomed her to the House.