Truphena Muthoni smashes own world record, hugs tree for 72 hours in Nyeri

Environmental activist Truphena Muthoni has officially broken her own world record by hugging a tree continuously for 72 hours, drawing nationwide attention and overwhelming public support.

The 22-year-old completed the feat at around 12:25 pm on Thursday, amid cheers and encouragement from local leaders, residents, and environmental enthusiasts.

Muthoni began her marathon on Monday, December 8, at the Nyeri Governor’s office compound, clasping a towering indigenous tree in a demonstration aimed at raising awareness over deforestation, climate change and mental health.

She remained rooted to the spot for three days without sleeping or leaving the tree, enduring rain, cold nights and scorching daytime heat.

“This peaceful protest is important because it bypasses all differences. During other protests, we hear stories of goons, but this one bypasses all stories and triggers humanity,” Muthoni said.

She added that hugging the tree is therapeutic and reinforces her call for environmental conservation.

Her previous record, set earlier this year at Nairobi’s Michuki Memorial Park, was 48 hours. Muthoni’s new accomplishment more than doubles the previous global mark of 24 hours and 21 minutes, cementing her position as a prominent voice in Kenya’s environmental movement.

The challenge included a three-hour blindfolded segment to highlight the experiences of people with visual impairments and link conservation to social justice.

Muthoni also used her attire to send a message: “Black means African power, protest and resilience, green is for reforestation, regeneration and hope, while red means indigenous resistance and frontline courage, and blue for water protectors and ocean defenders,” she explained during a local interview on December 10.

Nyeri erupted in celebration as thousands of residents, waving flags and chanting her name, lined the fence around the governor’s office to witness history. Governor Mutahi Kahiga, joined by Gender and Affirmative Action Principal Secretary Anne Wang’ombe and other leaders, lauded Muthoni’s resilience.

Support extended beyond the county. Pan-Africanist PLO Lumumba visited on the second day to show support, while former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua congratulated her on social media. The Red Cross, National Police Service officers and medics were also on site to monitor her safety throughout the marathon.

Muthoni’s record-breaking feat has also drawn gifts and pledges from well-wishers. A betting company promised Sh1 million, while others contributed a high-end smartphone, Sh100,000 to cover Guinness World Records filing fees, a skincare package, custom fashion suits for three months, and a three-day all-expenses-paid holiday on the Kenyan coast with her guardian.

Beyond the material rewards, Muthoni said her goal is to use the record to promote environmental conservation and mental health awareness.

“Hugging the tree symbolises grounding, healing and reconnecting with nature,” she said.

With the 72-hour mark now officially achieved, Truphena Muthoni holds the Guinness World Record for the longest continuous tree hug, reaffirming her commitment to Kenya’s forests, ecosystems and the mental well-being of young people.

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