NYERI, Kenya – 21-year-old Truphena Muthoni, an environmental activist, has set a new world record as she nails the 72-hour continuous tree-hugging challenge in Nyeri.
Muthoni has now surpassed her previous 48-hour record set in February 2025.
In an effort to break her own 48-hour Guinness World Record and promote awareness of deforestation, climate change, indigenous tree conservation, and mental health.
Muthoni, who drew support from environmental groups, local leaders, and hundreds of Kenyans who monitored her progress both on-site and online, began the challenge on December 8, 2025, outside the Nyeri Governor’s office.
Among notable people who have hailed her efforts are PLO Lumumba, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, and Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga.
The environmentalist has planted more than 10,000 trees and has been promised gifts such as a holiday and Sh 1 million.
Activist Truphena Muthoni completes her 72-hour marathon
However, as the last hours drew near, Muthoni continued to honour Wangari Maathai’s legacy, while some questioned the effort’s emphasis in light of local water problems and health dangers.
It is anticipated that the accomplishment will be submitted for verification to the appropriate international record-certifying organisations. Shortly after finishing the challenge, a fatigued but ecstatic Muthoni stated that her goal was to raise awareness of the critical need to save Kenya’s forests and encourage young people to take up environmental stewardship.
“This record is for our trees, our environment, and our future, not just for myself. Hugging a tree for 72 hours is worth every second if it encourages someone to plant or save a tree,” she explained before being whisked away in an ambulance.
Crowds cheered her on while organisers and medical staff made sure she was safe throughout the three-day marathon.
At a time when Kenya is still struggling with rampant deforestation, land degradation, and the effects of worsening climate shocks, local environmental organisations applauded her audacious protest and described it as an innovative form of campaigning.
How Kenyans lauded Truphena Muthoni’s initiative
Others, who also praised her initiative, said that her action served as a reminder that community-led conservation is still at the forefront of Kenya’s climate agenda and as a sign of resilience.
For instance, Gachagua said he strongly encourages her conservation resolve to not only break the record in the Guinness World Records for hugging a tree but also the awareness creation on environmental conservation and the mental health challenges attached.
“As a father and a leader, I am truly proud of you and wish you success. Your 72-hour challenge is a 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.”
Muthoni’s 72-hour accomplishment makes her one of the most dedicated environmental endurance activists in the world. According to her team, other projects are planned to maintain the momentum on reforestation and climate awareness.
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