Prominent Kenyan figures, including PLO Lumumba and Rigathi Gachagua, have rallied behind 22-year-old Truphena Muthoni as she pursues a Guinness World Record for the longest tree-hugging marathon in Nyeri. Her 72-hour endeavor highlights environmental conservation and mental health awareness. Supporters from across the country have gathered to cheer her on.
Truphena Muthoni, a 22-year-old environmental activist, is continuing her 72-hour tree-hugging marathon to break the Guinness World Record at the Nyeri Governor's office. Pan-Africanist PLO Lumumba visited Muthoni on December 10, 2025, to encourage her in the attempt.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has also voiced his support via social media. "I strongly encourage you in your conservation resolve to not only break your record in the Guinness World Records of hugging a tree but also the awareness creation on environmental conservation and mental health challenges attached," Gachagua wrote. He added that he is proud of her and wishes her success, stating, "Your 72-hour challenge is a great reminder that the world needs to take time and take care of our common home. Your futuristic thoughts must prick the mind of the world to reset thoughts on conservation and mental health challenges."
Muthoni, in a video posted on her social media platforms, thanked supporters from Nyeri County and other areas who have traveled to join the vigil and share the message. Bonfire Adventure CEO Simon Kabu and his daughter Maurine Kabu gifted her and her family a fully sponsored three-day holiday at the coast to celebrate her resilience and passion for environmental conservation.
Muthoni's effort has sparked a social media challenge, with content creators joining by hugging trees and sharing supportive videos. At the 48-hour mark, she hugged the tree blindfolded for nearly three hours, using the moment to advocate for protecting people with disabilities from climate injustices. Her primary aims are to combat deforestation and promote animal rights through this silent tree-hugging protest.
