Truphena Muthoni’s 72-Hour Tree Embrace: Millions in Prizes and a Legacy for Conservation.
Truphena Muthoni, a 22-year-old environmental activist from Nyeri County, Kenya, pushes human limits in her latest bid to hug an indigenous tree for 72 consecutive hours.
Starting December 8, 2025, at 12:20 p.m., she endures without food, water, sleep, or breaks to shatter her own 48-hour Guinness World Record from February.
Her latest attempt aims to raise awareness about indigenous trees, indigenous communities, and inclusivity for persons with disabilities. This is highlighted by her planned three-hour blindfold experience to simulate visual impairment.
This feat spotlights indigenous tree protection, community inclusion, and mental health through nature therapy.
Pledged Rewards Surge Past Millions
Supporters rally with cash and gifts if Muthoni succeeds, turning her challenge into a windfall. OdiBets pledges KSh 1 million, while Adequate Safaris offers a fully paid three-night Mombasa holiday.
Individuals add a Samsung Galaxy Fold 7 from Damaris of Dama Spares, KSh 100,000 from Solomon Maina for Guinness fees, Fechi Beauty’s skincare and perfume package.
Renowned fashion designer Sir Bonnie Brands has pledged that for the next three months, Muthoni will receive suits designed by them, allowing her to choose any outfit she likes.
Leaders and Crowds Fuel the Momentum
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga and Deputy Kinaniri launched the event, praising Muthoni’s creativity in climate advocacy.
“Together with Nyeri Deputy Governor Kinaniri Waroe, we officially kicked off the countdown for the incredible Truphena Muthoni, who is once again making Nyeri County proud as she attempts to break her own world record, moving from 48 hours of tree-hugging to this ambitious 72 hours,” said the Governor.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua urges her on, linking the stunt to global conservation and mental health awareness.
“Truphena Muthoni, push on, my daughter. I strongly encourage you in your conservation efforts, not only to break your record in the Guinness World Records for hugging a tree but also to raise awareness about environmental conservation and the mental health challenges associated with it. Your visionary thoughts must inspire the world to rethink its approach to conservation and mental health issues,” said the former Deputy President.
PLO Lumumba and nationwide fans visit the Nyeri site amid rains and exhaustion, as she nears completion just hours away.
Broader Impact on Environment and Youth Activism
Muthoni’s prior 48-hour record at Michuki Park drew UNEP’s Ababu Namwamba, proving her pull in eco-circles. The 72-hour twist includes three blindfolded hours to champion disability inclusion, redefining activism beyond budgets toward bold, viral actions.
Environmentalists hail this as a youth-driven shift, echoing Wangari Maathai’s legacy while tackling deforestation and urban mental health crises.
Success could amplify calls for indigenous forest safeguards and nature-based wellness amid rising youth stress. More pledges pour in as the clock ticks, potentially totaling millions in value. Muthoni’s resolve inspires a generation to hug trees literally for planetary and personal healing