Environmental activist Truphena Muthoni, 22, from Nyeri County, has embarked on a mission to set a new Guinness World Record by hugging a tree continuously for 72 hours.
The attempt, which officially began on Sunday, was flagged off by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga and Deputy Governor David Kinaniri, in the presence of environmentalists and local officials.
The challenge is taking place in Nyeri town, where Muthoni is being monitored by a team of medical personnel, timekeepers, and record observers.
Her latest effort builds on a previous attempt earlier this year, when she hugged a tree for 48 hours, drawing international attention and local recognition for her persistence.
Governor Kahiga commended her effort, describing Muthoni as an inspiration to young Kenyans committed to environmental protection.
“Truphena has become a symbol of dedication and resilience,” the governor said during the flag-off. “Through her, Nyeri is showcasing that climate advocacy can be peaceful, creative, and powerful.
Muthoni first made headlines in early 2025 when she completed a 48-hour tree-hugging marathon at Nairobi’s John Michuki Memorial Park.
That event, which she described as “a silent protest for nature,” attracted attention from both local and international media.
Her latest goal extends that record by 24 more hours. According to Muthoni, the attempt is not only about endurance but also about using symbolic action to promote environmental awareness and mental well-being.
“Nature is healing,” she said ahead of the attempt. “Through this challenge, I want to remind people that taking care of the planet is also a way of taking care of ourselves.”
The 72-hour attempt is being carried out under conditions meant to comply with Guinness World Record requirements.
Muthoni must remain in contact with the tree throughout the duration, with only limited breaks permitted under official rules.
Her team has set up tents and monitoring equipment nearby to ensure safety, hydration, and proper documentation for submission to Guinness authorities.
For part of the duration, Muthoni plans to remain blindfolded for three hours, a gesture meant to show solidarity with visually impaired persons and promote disability inclusion.
Observers from Nyeri County government, local NGOs, and youth groups have joined the effort, offering support and encouragement as she works toward the 72-hour target.
Environmental groups have praised her approach as a creative and non-confrontational way to engage the public on conservation issues.
The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has also expressed support for Muthoni’s campaign, noting that such individual efforts help draw attention to the country’s reforestation targets and forest protection initiatives.
“Kenya loses significant forest cover annually,” said one KFS representative. “Awareness initiatives like this help citizens reconnect with nature and understand the urgency of restoring our green cover.
As of Monday evening, Muthoni’s support team reported that she had surpassed the 48-hour mark and was on track toward the 72-hour target.
The attempt is expected to conclude on Wednesday, after which the documentation will be reviewed and submitted to Guinness World Records for evaluation.
If successful, Muthoni will become the first Kenyan to officially hold a Guinness World Record in the tree-hugging category
