President William Ruto has appointed 22-year-old environmentalist Truphena Muthoni as an Ambassador of Kenya’s 15 Billion Tree Planting Campaign following her remarkable 72-hour tree-hugging challenge.
The President announced the appointment after meeting Muthoni at State House, praising her as an example of dedication and determination among Kenyan youth.
“Truphena Muthoni is an exemplary young Kenyan whose courage, fortitude, and leadership reflect the very best of our nation’s spirit,” President Ruto said.
“In recognition of her inspiring efforts, I have appointed her as an Ambassador of the 15 Billion Tree Planting Campaign, a key national initiative aimed at securing Kenya’s environmental future.”
In addition to the appointment, President Ruto said Muthoni will receive a fully sponsored holiday provided by the Kenya Wildlife Service and the Kenya Tourism Board. The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry will also support her dream of visiting Brazil to learn more about global conservation and environmental leadership.
Muthoni began her tree-hugging challenge on December 8 and completed it after three days without eating or sleeping. The challenge was meant to break her previous 48-hour record and serve as a peaceful protest against deforestation.
She said the act of hugging trees was meant to promote unity, compassion, and awareness about the importance of protecting the environment.
Her achievement attracted national attention and support from leaders and members of the public. Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga officially launched the challenge and encouraged her throughout the event. Legal scholar and Pan-Africanist PLO Lumumba visited her on the second day, while former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua congratulated her online.
The event received wide media coverage, and hundreds of residents gathered outside the Nyeri Governor’s office to cheer her on and show support.
Kenyans also came forward with gifts to recognise her effort. A betting company pledged KSh1 million, while another well-wisher offered KSh100,000 to help her submit the record to Guinness World Records. A mobile phone company gifted her a Samsung Galaxy Fold 7, while a beauty shop provided skincare products and perfumes. A local fashion designer also promised to make her custom suits for three months.
Additionally, a tours and travel company offered Muthoni a fully paid three-day holiday at the Kenyan Coast for her and her parent or guardian.
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