Environmental activist Truphena Muthoni has officially completed her bold 72-hour tree-hugging challenge, marking a new milestone in her ongoing campaign for environmental conservation and mental health awareness.
The 22-year-old began the marathon on Monday, December 8, 2025, outside the Nyeri Governor’s Office, drawing crowds of supporters, county officials, and curious residents moved by her unusual but powerful statement.
Muthoni had set out to surpass her previous world-record attempt of 48 continuous hours, achieved in February 2025. This time, she pushed her physical and emotional limits to clock an unprecedented 72 hours without food, water, or breaks, all while remaining embraced around the same tree.
A Protest, a Statement, and a Healing Ritual
From the beginning, Muthoni emphasized that her effort was more than an endurance feat. She described the marathon as a silent protest against deforestation, a plea for the protection of indigenous forests, and a deeply personal journey of healing.
“The reason for hugging trees is that it’s therapeutic, and we have a lot of mental health crises across the world that are directly involved with environmental degradation,” she explained early in the challenge.
She attributes nature as a source of grounding, arguing that reconnecting with the environment can help counter rising mental health struggles linked to environmental loss.
Enduring the Elements
Across the 72-hour marathon, Muthoni faced harsh conditions — heavy rains, frigid nights, physical fatigue, and long hours of stillness. Yet, she remained resolute. Her support team of environmental activists maintained a rotating playlist of diverse music genres to energize her and lift the mood as the hours wore on.
Crowds gathered throughout the three days, some offering moral support, others simply curious to witness what could become a new Guinness World Record.
National Leaders Voice Support
The challenge drew widespread attention, including from high-profile leaders. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua praised Muthoni’s determination, addressing her with both paternal pride and national admiration.
“Truphena Muthoni, push on my daughter,” he said on Wednesday. “I strongly encourage you in your conservation resolve — not only to break your record in the Guinness World Records of hugging a tree but also to raise awareness on environmental conservation and mental health challenges attached.”
He added that her act serves as “a great reminder that the world needs to take time and take care of our common home,” commending her for inspiring a global mindset shift toward environmental stewardship.
Nyeri Governor Kahiga Mutahi and his deputy Kinaniri Waroe also visited the site to witness her progress firsthand. Governor Kahiga, who officiated the start of the countdown on Monday, expressed admiration for her resolve.
“Wow, that’s impressive,” he remarked after observing her sustained focus and stamina.
A Symbol of Hope and Resilience
Muthoni’s record-setting feat has not only captured national attention but has also highlighted the growing intersection between environmental conservation and mental health advocacy. Her message — that nature can heal and must be protected — has resonated widely.
As she completes her remarkable 72-hour challenge, Kenyans celebrate not just her endurance, but her courage, her passion, and her unwavering commitment to safeguarding both the planet and the well-being of future generations.
