Former Deputy President
Rigathi Gachagua has cheered on climate activist Truphena Muthoni, the
22-year-old who launched an audacious attempt to set a new Guinness World
Record by hugging a tree for 72 consecutive hours.
Muthoni hopes the fete will
spotlight the urgency of climate action while surpassing her own previous
milestone.
Muthoni currently holds
the 48-hour tree-hugging world record, which she earned in February at Nairobi’s
Michuki Memorial Park.
“Truphena Muthoni, push
on my daughter,” Gachagua said on Wednesday.
“I strongly encourage you
in your conservation resolve to not only break your record in the Guinness
World Records of hugging a tree but also the awareness creation on
environmental conservation and mental health challenges attached.”
Acknowledging his
position as a father and a leader, Gachagua expressed pride and wished Muthoni
success.
He added that her 72-hour
challenge is “great reminder that the world needs to take time and take care of
our common home”.
“Your futuristic thoughts
must prick the mind of the world to reset thoughts on conservation and mental
health challenges. I am with you every step of the way,” he added.
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.
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.
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.
