Pastor Jimmy Irungu’s Dramatic Tree-Hug for Cancer Awareness
Pastor James “Jimmy” Irungu, a gospel singer and activist from Murang’a County, collapsed just shy of completing an ambitious 80-hour tree-hugging challenge aimed at spotlighting Kenya’s cancer crisis.
The event, which drew crowds and media attention, underscores the lengths individuals go to advocate for health reforms.
Challenge Details
Irungu started hugging the tree on Sunday, January 4, committing to 80 straight hours without breaking contact, surpassing the prior 72-hour record set by tree-planting ambassador Truphena Muthoni.
Held in Murang’a Town, the stunt combined environmental activism with a urgent plea for government action on affordable cancer screening and treatment.
He endured nearly 79 hours before fainting at around 6:29 a.m. on January 8, just one hour from the finish.
Pastor James Irungu’s campaign had attracted significant public interest, with supporters gathering at the site throughout the week.
The challenge was scheduled to end at 5:27 a.m. Thursday, marking a personal milestone for Irungu and a symbolic victory for his cause.
Irungu had repeatedly stated that his effort was not a publicity stunt but a symbolic gesture linking environmental health to cancer prevention.
“We cannot ignore the role of chemicals in our food and farm inputs. Protecting our environment is protecting our lives,” Irungu said during an earlier briefing.
Medical Update and Response
Paramedics rushed Irungu to Murang’a Level 5 Hospital, where he remains under observation in stable condition.
Witnesses described the sudden collapse after days without rest, highlighting the physical toll of such endurance feats.
The incident has not deterred supporters, who continue rallying for his cause.
Irungu’s supporters have expressed concern but have remained hopeful about his recovery.
“Pastor Jimmy has always been passionate about health and the environment. This was his way of making people listen. We pray he gets well soon,” said Rosemary Ndung’u, a volunteer at the site.
Critics argued that the 80-hour stunt, while creative, offered little practical benefit to cancer patients who urgently need affordable treatment and early screening.
Concerns also centered on the physical risks of prolonged immobility, with some questioning whether the challenge endangered Irungu’s health more than it advanced his cause.
Environmental groups have voiced mixed reactions, acknowledging the importance of addressing chemical contamination but urging Irungu to focus on campaigning for stricter regulations and sustainable farming practices instead of high-risk demonstrations.
Cancer cases in Kenya surge annually, with late diagnoses and high treatment costs burdening families and the health system.
Irungu’s campaign amplifies calls for subsidized care, echoing similar awareness drives that blend activism with public spectacle.
This event spotlights how faith leaders leverage personal sacrifice to push for policy changes amid rising non-communicable diseases.
Social media buzzes with admiration for Irungu’s resilience, though some critique the risks of extreme challenges.
Despite falling short, he broke the national record, inspiring conversations on cancer prevention and environmental ties to health.