Environmental activist Truphena Muthoni: The meaning behind my 17 coloured braids

Environmental activist Truphena Muthoni has revealed the meaning behind her striking hairstyle, linking it directly to her advocacy for environmental sustainability.

Speaking during an interview with Citizen TV on Sunday, Muthoni explained that her hair, styled in 17 braids, represents the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She emphasised that her braids have been wrapped using yarn scraps, some of which she has been reusing for up to four years, while others are from more recent collections.

“These are, first of all, they are 17 to represent the 17 SDGs, and they are part of my sustainability fashion campaign. These are waste, yarn scraps, and I’ve been reusing them for the longest time. The green ones I’ve used for four years, and these others I just bought this year. Each colour has meaning,” she said.

Muthoni detailed the symbolism of each colour, noting that, “Black represents African power, protest and resilience. Red is for indigenous resistance and frontline courage. Green is for reforestation, regeneration and hope and Blue is for water protectors and ocean defenders.”

She noted that her hairstyle is a medium for storytelling, blending personal expression with global responsibility.

The 22-year-old environmentalist, who recently completed a 72-hour tree-hugging challenge, said her commitment to environmental advocacy extends beyond public stunts.

“In a world where environmental messages can often be overlooked, I found a way to make sustainability both visible and personal. By merging art, culture and global goals, I have transformed myself into a living ambassador for the planet,” she said.

She revealed that her record attempt was aimed at raising awareness of environmental conservation while supporting social causes, including initiatives for children, youth and people living with disabilities.

“Most of the time, we’re not fairly engaged—children, people living with disabilities and young people. Additionally, many individuals who are dedicated to the cause do not have an adequate platform. So I’m happy that one individual has gained a platform,” Muthoni said.

Addressing critics who have labelled her record attempt a publicity stunt, she urged them to seek accurate information before making judgments.

“For critics, I would encourage them to first do some research. When you’re criticising, it’s important to have accurate information. Through research, you’ll realise there’s no point in criticising,” she said.

Muthoni stressed the importance of public participation in environmental conservation, particularly in planting indigenous trees, which she warned are nearing extinction.

“We cannot exist without nature. We are part of the ecosystem. Even in spiritual texts, like the Bible, God created man and placed him in the Garden of Eden,” she said.

Muthoni said she plans to submit evidence of her achievement to Guinness World Records in the coming week. On Friday, December 12, 2025, Guinness World Records stated that they had yet to receive the necessary documentation to certify her 72-hour tree-hugging attempt. The clarification followed a social media query from a user asking why the achievement had not been acknowledged.

The organisation responded: “We look forward to receiving the evidence.”

Other Topics To Read

• National
• Environmental conservation
• environmental awareness
• Truphena Muthoni
• Environmental activist Truphena Muthoni
• Environmental activist Truphena Muthoni: The meaning behind my 17 coloured braids
• Headlines

Muthoni aimed to break her previous 48-hour record by hugging a tree for 72 hours, beginning the challenge on Tuesday, December 8, 2025, at 12:20 p.m., and completing it on Thursday, December 11.

Guinness World Records requires detailed evidence to verify any claimed record, including what is being attempted, how and where it will be carried out and supporting documentation. Once a proposal is accepted, applicants receive guidelines and an evidence checklist. Failure to provide complete evidence can lead to the rejection of a record attempt.

All evidence must be submitted through the applicant’s GWR account.

Through her symbolic hairstyle and record-breaking tree hug, Muthoni said she continues to combine creativity, culture and environmental advocacy, demonstrating that even small, deliberate actions can inspire global awareness and change.