Kenyan Environmental Activist Breaks World Record With 72-Hour Tree-Hug
Truphena Muthoni, a 22-year-old environmentalist, has established a new Guinness World Record by hugging a tree for 72 hours.
The wildlife activist began the challenge on December 8 and completed it without eating or sleeping for three days.
Truphena was hoping to break her own 48-hour world record, and she chose the silent protest as a way to stand up to deforestation while also connecting with people’s conscience.
"They looked at me and told me there is nothing I can do" – Before attempting to hit the 72 hour record, Truphena Muthoni explained how the Ministry of Environment failed her. pic.twitter.com/8nl07M8Ts3
— KENYA GOSSIP HUB (@kenyasgossips) December 11, 2025
“The importance of this peaceful protest is that it bypasses all differences, because during the other protests we hear stories of goons, but this one bypasses all stories and triggers humanity,” she said.
She added that the tree-hugging process is therapeutic and reinforces her call for environmental conservation.
Truphena garnered widespread acclaim for her efforts, attracting the attention of national and local leaders.
How citizens cheered as Truphena Muthoni broke the 72-hour tree-hugging mark. pic.twitter.com/VruOc5cB6u
— KENYA GOSSIP HUB (@kenyasgossips) December 11, 2025
Her three-day tree-hugging marathon was launched by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, who has been a source of encouragement for the 22-year-old, inspiring her to beat the record.
PLO Lumumba, a pan-Africanist and advocate, traveled to Nyeri on the second day to encourage her.
At the same time, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua praised her on his social media page.
The media, both online and mainstream, has also offered support by promoting and airing her endeavor, while people gathered outside the Nyeri Governor’s office to offer emotional support.
Twenty-two-year-old Truphena Muthoni, an environmental activist sets a new world record as she nails the 72-hour continuous tree-hugging challenge in Nyeri, surpasses her previous 48-hour record set in February pic.twitter.com/ou6yDnXBwi
— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) December 11, 2025
Aside from the national exposure and emotional support she has received, other Kenyans have come out with large gifts to honor her resilience.
A hefty monetary pledge, a high-end smartphone, and an all-expenses-paid vacation were among the symbols of appreciation for her exceptional fortitude.
A betting firm has promised Truphena Ksh1 million for smashing the world record.
Another individual also promised her Ksh100,000 to cover the fees required to file her record with Guinness World Records.
A company selling and repairing phones in the country also promised a brand-new Samsung Galaxy Fold 7 phone.
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A beauty shop offered a skincare package and perfumes, while a fashion designer pledged three months’ worth of custom suits.
A tour travel company also offered her an all-expense-paid holiday on the Kenyan coast for three days, together with her guardian or parent.
Ultimately, the official reward from the Guinness World Records organisation is the formal certification and global recognition.
With her attempt now a reality, Truphena holds the Guinness World Record for the longest time spent hugging a tree.
Kenyan Environmental Activist Breaks World Record With 72-Hour Tree-Hug
