Climate activist Truphena Muthoni flanked by Governor Kahiga Mutahi and his team and activists at the start of the 72-hour tree-hugging countdown on Monday, December 8, 2025. /KAHIGA MUTAHI/X
Climate activist Truphena Muthoni has launched an audacious attempt to set a new Guinness World Record by hugging a tree for 72 consecutive hours, a feat she hopes will spotlight the urgency of climate action while surpassing her own previous milestone.
The 22-year-old environmentalist, known for her passion for reforestation and youth-led ecological advocacy, is undertaking the three-day endurance challenge outside Nyeri Governor Kahiga Mutahi’s office in Nyeri town.
Muthoni currently holds the 48-hour tree-hugging world record, which she earned in February at Nairobi’s Michuki Memorial Park.
This time, she aims to push her physical and mental limits even further. Her rules are strict: no food, no water, and no breaks.
She must maintain continuous contact with the tree, although she is permitted to shift positions and move around it as long as the embrace remains unbroken.
To boost her morale, a group of fellow environmental activists has organised a rotating playlist of background music, featuring an eclectic mix of genres intended to maintain her energy, balance the mood, and keep the atmosphere lively as the hours stretch on.
Supporters occasionally gather around the site, applauding her endurance and encouraging her to keep going.
By Tuesday afternoon, Muthoni had completed 24 uninterrupted hours, drawing growing interest from residents, activists, and county officials.
Governor Kahiga Mutahi and his deputy, Kinaniri Waroe, joined dozens of onlookers to witness her progress.
“Wow, that’s impressive,” Governor Kahiga remarked after observing her unwavering focus and stamina.
The governor presided over the start of the countdown on Monday, expressing pride in her commitment.
"Together with Nyeri DG Kinaniri Waroe, we officially kicked off the countdown for the incredible Truphena Muthoni, 22.
“She is once again making Nyeri county proud as she attempts to break her own world record—moving from 48 hours of tree-hugging to an ambitious 72 hours,” he said.
The county leadership has described Muthoni’s dare as not just a personal endurance test but a powerful expression of grassroots environmental activism.
Her earlier record, achieved between January 31 and February 1, 2025, earned her significant national applause and international recognition.
Kenya’s Permanent Representative to UNEP and UNON, Ababu Namwamba, celebrated her February triumph as a landmark moment for youth-led climate advocacy.
In a post on X, he wrote, “Congratulations, Muthoni, for your incredible tree-hugging world record achievement this evening at Michuki Park in Nairobi. Your historic feat has drawn global attention to the phenomenal power of youth as consequential champions for climate action, sustainability, and deploying nature for mental health and wellness.”
Muthoni’s actions have sparked comparisons with the late Nobel laureate and environmental icon Wangari Maathai, whose pioneering work in conservation and community mobilisation remains central to Kenya’s green movement.
Many see Muthoni as part of a new generation of environmental champions who draw from Maathai’s legacy while forging fresh pathways in climate activism.
As she closes in on her self-imposed target, Muthoni’s attempt continues to attract national curiosity and appreciation.
Beyond the spectacle of endurance, supporters argue that her effort underscores a deeper message that individual action, however symbolic, can inspire collective responsibility for the planet.
Whether or not she secures a new world record, her campaign has already succeeded in stirring dialogue about the environment, resilience and youth leadership.
