Kenya's Health Ministry has warned citizens against prolonged tree-hugging without prior medical checks. This comes after multiple cases of collapses requiring hospital treatment. The trend stems from Truphena Muthoni's viral 72-hour challenge.
The Kenyan government, via the Ministry of Health, has issued a public advisory cautioning against extended tree-hugging sessions without a preliminary medical examination. This measure follows reports of individuals collapsing and needing urgent hospital care after such activities.
The practice surged in popularity after Truphena Muthoni completed her 72-hour tree-hugging feat on December 11, 2025, eclipsing her prior 48-hour mark and earning her nationwide acclaim. Participants, mostly youth, have adopted it for causes like cancer awareness and environmental advocacy.
Notable instances include a young man in Limuru, Kiambu County, who attempted the challenge to fund his Grade 10 brother's school fees, and another in Meru protesting banditry by embracing a tree. In Western Kenya, a woman was hospitalized at Bugoma after a 74-hour stint.
On January 15, 2026, Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni described the activity as demanding and urged mandatory check-ups. "I have seen people who are really in the mood for hugging trees. People are hugging trees; that is a strenuous exercise. Before doing the challenge, make sure you go for a check-up," she stated.
The ministry has documented several collapse incidents linked to unassessed participation. "We are not stopping anyone from participating in the tree-hugging challenge, but you must first undergo a medical checkup to ensure that you are medically fit," she added. Muthoni also stressed the importance of physical conditioning and incremental training, warning that advocacy efforts should not compromise personal well-being.
