By Ghazali Ibrahim
Kenyan environmental activist Truphena Muthoni has officially been confirmed by Guinness World Records as the holder of the longest continuous tree-hugging marathon, embracing a tree for 72 hours without rest in a symbolic protest aimed at drawing global attention to environmental protection and the conservation of indigenous forests.
The 22-year-old completed the challenge between December 8 and 11, 2025, outside the Nyeri Governor’s Office in central Kenya, surpassing her own previous world record of 48 hours set earlier in the year. Her ratified time officially recognised on January 26, 2026 marks a new benchmark for the endurance feat.
Guinness World Records described Muthoni’s achievement as a powerful representation of humanity’s bond with nature and a call for greater action on environmental conservation. The record body outlined that her attempt was designed to go beyond symbolism, highlighting endurance and consistency in advocating for tree protection.
Muthoni, who hails from Mathira Sub-county in Nyeri County, said her marathon hug was intended to raise global awareness about the urgent need to protect trees particularly indigenous species threatened by deforestation. Her message urged the world to “fall in love with nature” and treat conservation not as an obligation but a passion.
The achievement has attracted broad praise across Kenya. Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga lauded Muthoni’s determination and environmental leadership, promising ongoing support for her advocacy work and future ecological initiatives. He described her feat as a source of pride for the county and the nation.
Muthoni’s world record social media pages brimmed with congratulatory messages following the confirmation.
One follower wrote: “Congratulations, Truphena! You did not just hug a tree, you gave the world a reason to hold on a little tighter to their dreams.”
Another added: “For the planet, here we stay!”
Earlier in her campaign, Muthoni’s record attempt also drew national attention when Kenya’s President William Ruto honoured her at State House and announced her appointment as an ambassador for the country’s 15-billion tree-planting campaign, underlining government backing for her environmental mission.
At just 22, Truphena Muthoni’s endurance record breaking her own mark and capturing worldwide interest stands as a unique fusion of climate advocacy, personal resolve and symbolic activism, inspiring environmentalists and youth across Africa and beyond.
