Nyeri climate change activist Truphena Muthoni attempts 72-hour tree-hugging record
Nyeri climate activist Truphena Muthoni is attempting a 72-hour nonstop tree hug outside the governor’s office to break her own record and highlight climate, mental health and indigenous trees.
A 22-year-old climate activist, Truphena Muthoni, has embarked on an extraordinary challenge: hugging a tree continuously for 72 hours to raise awareness about climate change, mental health, and the importance of protecting indigenous trees.
Muthoni, who currently holds the 48-hour tree-hugging world record set in February at Nairobi’s Michuki Memorial Park, said she hopes this marathon will surpass her previous feat while inspiring collective environmental action.
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“Before planting new trees, we must nurture a million hearts that care,” she told supporters gathered at the site.
The challenge, which began at midnight on Sunday, 7 December, is taking place outside Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga’s office. It requires her to maintain uninterrupted contact with the tree, with no food, water, or breaks allowed, although she may shift positions.
Rotating music playlist
She said a rotating playlist of music and encouragement from fellow activists helps her maintain focus and energy during the gruelling hours.
By Tuesday afternoon, Muthoni had completed 24 hours of continuous hugging, drawing attention from residents, environmentalists, and county officials.
Governor Kahiga and his deputy, Kinaniri Waroe, joined dozens of onlookers to witness her progress.
“Wow, that’s impressive,” Kahiga said, noting her unwavering stamina.
“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.”
Muthoni said she had prepared extensively for the physical and mental demands of the marathon. Her training included long-distance walking, intermittent fasting, and practice hugs with communities, children, and even animals.
“I train by walking for long hours, like 42 kilometres. I also do mini tree-hugs that involve communities, kids, and even cows. They come and do solidarity tree-hugs with me,” she said.
Importance of hydration
Reflecting on lessons from her previous record, she acknowledged the importance of hydration before the attempt, even though she will go without water during the hug.
“I didn’t take a lot of water in my first attempt, but I learned from that. You need to take a lot of water beforehand to stay medically safe,” she said.
Supporters have rallied behind Muthoni’s cause worldwide, with more than 10,000 people in 33 countries participating in simultaneous tree-hugs in solidarity.
“It really motivates me. It shows what one person can do can actually inspire movement,” she said.
Muthoni’s effort has also drawn comparisons to the late Nobel laureate Wangari Maathai, Kenya’s environmental pioneer. Kenya’s Permanent Representative to UNEP and UNON, Ababu Namwamba, praised her February record, writing on social media:
“Your historic feat has drawn global attention to the phenomenal power of youth as consequential champions for climate action, sustainability, and deploying nature for mental health and wellness.”
The young activist’s focus also extends beyond the record itself.
“The importance of this peaceful protest is that it bypasses all differences. It triggers humanity,” she said, describing her marathon as a form of “neutral activism.”
Three hours blindfolded
She also plans to spend three hours blindfolded during the challenge to highlight the experiences of the visually impaired.
She emphasised that physical and emotional endurance remain the biggest challenges.
“Emotionally, it changes in waves. Some hours feel heavy or lonely. Others bring calm, a sense of flow. Motivation can dip, but I focus on the purpose and the girls watching,” she said.
To maintain her stamina, she engages with visitors, sings, meditates, and avoids negative energy.
The county leadership has embraced her attempt as both a personal feat and a symbol of grassroots environmental advocacy. Volunteers and local supporters have offered their services freely to ensure the event runs smoothly.
After completing the 72-hour hug, Muthoni said she plans a medical check-up, reflection, and gratitude towards her supporters.
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