Nyeri-based climate activist Truphena Muthoni has embarked on a bold mission to set a new Guinness World Record by hugging a tree for 72 straight hours an effort she hopes will amplify calls for urgent climate action while surpassing her own previous record.
The 22-year-old environmental advocate, celebrated for her commitment to reforestation and youth-driven conservation initiatives, began the endurance challenge outside the Nyeri Governor’s office in Nyeri town.
Muthoni currently holds the global record for the longest tree hug at 48 hours, a milestone she achieved in February at Nairobi’s Michuki Memorial Park. This time, she plans to push her endurance even further under stricter, self-imposed rules: no food, no water, and no breaks. She must maintain continuous contact with the tree, although she is allowed to shift positions as long as the hug remains unbroken.
To keep her spirits high, fellow environmentalists have curated a rotating playlist of music designed to sustain her energy and create a lively atmosphere around the site. Residents, activists, and curious supporters have periodically gathered to cheer her on.
By Tuesday afternoon, Muthoni had successfully completed 24 uninterrupted hours. Her effort has attracted growing interest from the public and county officials, including Nyeri Governor Kahiga Mutahi and Deputy Governor Kinaniri Waroe, who visited the site to offer encouragement.
“Wow, that’s impressive,” Governor Kahiga remarked as he observed her determination.
The governor presided over the launch of the challenge on Monday.
“Together with Nyeri DG Kinaniri Waroe, we officially kicked off the countdown for the incredible Truphena Muthoni, 22,” he said.
“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.”
County officials have praised the challenge not only as a personal test of endurance but also as a meaningful symbol of grassroots environmental activism.
Muthoni’s earlier record, achieved between January 31 and February 1, 2025, earned her widespread acclaim and international attention. Kenya’s Permanent Representative to UNEP and UNON, Ababu Namwamba, hailed the feat as a landmark moment for youth climate advocacy.
“Your historic achievement has drawn global attention to the phenomenal power of youth as champions of climate action and sustainability,” Namwamba wrote in February.
Her bold actions have also drawn parallels to Nobel laureate Wangari Maathai, the iconic environmentalist whose legacy continues to shape Kenya’s green movement. Many see Muthoni as part of a rising generation of climate champions inspired by Maathai’s work but forging their own path in contemporary activism.
As the clock winds down, Muthoni’s attempt continues to spark national interest. Beyond the spectacle, supporters say her effort carries a powerful message: that individual acts of commitment even symbolic ones can inspire broader responsibility for protecting the planet.
Whether or not she secures a new Guinness World Record, her campaign has already succeeded in energising conversations about climate responsibility, resilience, and youth leadership.
