Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has praised and encouraged 22-year-old environmental activist Truphena Muthoni as she attempts to break her own world record in a 72-hour tree-hugging marathon in Nyeri County.
Muthoni launched the challenge on Monday, December 8, at the Office of the Governor in Nyeri. She said the initiative aims to break her existing record while creating awareness about the protection of indigenous forests.
“I am Truphena Muthoni, a guardian of forests and an advocate for indigenous trees and communities. I am here in Nyeri to attempt a 72-hour tree-hugging challenge to break my own world record and to speak out for the protection of indigenous trees,” she said.
Muthoni explained that tree hugging is not just symbolic but also has therapeutic value, especially at a time when many people are facing mental health challenges linked to environmental degradation.
Former DP Gachagua encouraged her on Wednesday, just hours before she completed the challenge. He praised her environmental commitment and the message she is spreading.
“I strongly encourage you to continue with your conservation efforts and to break your Guinness World Records title while raising awareness on environmental conservation and mental health,” Gachagua said. “As a father and a leader, I am proud of you and wish you success.”
He added that the 72-hour challenge is a powerful reminder of the need to protect the environment and address mental health issues.
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga also commended Muthoni’s determination, noting that her effort sends a strong message to young people and the public.
“It is not easy to stand hugging a tree for 72 hours, but this shows that everything is possible with focus,” Kahiga said. “She is only 22 years old, and if she lives to 80, imagine how much more she can achieve for the world.”
Earlier this year, on February 1, 2025, Muthoni set a 48-hour world record for the longest time spent hugging a tree at John Michuki Memorial Park in Nairobi. The achievement earned recognition from Guinness World Records and made her one of the country’s best-known young environmental advocates.
Muthoni said her record attempts are about more than endurance. She wants to draw attention to the urgent need for environmental conservation and the healing power of nature.
She shared that tree hugging helped her cope during difficult times and encouraged others to reconnect with nature for better mental health.
“Urban development is destroying natural resources. Nature has real healing power, and tree hugging helped me find peace,” she said.
Muthoni trained for months to prepare for the challenge, adjusting her diet, sleep, and daily routine to withstand long hours without rest.
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