Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has urged the Kenyan government to award environmental activist Truphena Muthoni the highest civilian honor during Jamhuri Day celebrations. The 22-year-old set a new Guinness World Record by hugging a tree for 72 hours in a silent protest against deforestation. Cherargei described her act as a demonstration of patriotism deserving national recognition.
Environmental activist Truphena Muthoni, aged 22, has set a new Guinness World Record by hugging a tree for 72 hours outside the Nyeri County Governor's office. She undertook the silent protest against deforestation while dry fasting, abstaining from food and sleep for three days starting December 8, 2025. This surpassed her previous record of 48 hours. Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga flagged off the challenge, and crowds from across Kenya gathered to support and celebrate as she broke the record.
After achieving the feat, Muthoni was taken by ambulance for medical checks and to eat following nights of cold and rain. Supporters gifted her money, a high-end smartphone, and an all-expenses-paid holiday. Her team now prepares documentation, including witness statements and logbooks, for submission to Guinness World Records. The review process may take 5 days to 12 weeks; if approved, she will receive an official certificate.
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has led calls for the government to award Muthoni the Head of State Commendation during Jamhuri Day on December 12. "As we celebrate Kenya's independence, which came after sacrifices and a freedom fight against colonialism, Muthoni joins the list of our heroes," he stated. Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris praised her audacity: "I applaud you for the courage... to speak for the environment without even saying a word." Cherargei criticized the lack of official recognition and hailed her activism as patriotic service to the nation.
