Kenyan Government Urged to Honour Climate Activist Truphena Muthoni After Record-Breaking Tree-Hugging Feat
A growing chorus of leaders has called on the Kenyan government to formally recognise 22-year-old environmental activist Truphena Muthoni, whose extraordinary 72-hour tree-hugging world record has drawn national and international admiration.
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei led the appeals on Monday, sharply criticising the government for failing to award the young activist an official state commendation despite what he described as “unmatched courage, resilience and sacrifice” in raising climate awareness.
“As we celebrate Kenya’s Independence Day (Jamhuri Day) tomorrow — a freedom gained through sacrifice by our founding fathers — Muthoni joins the list of our heroes and heroines,” Senator Cherargei said. He urged President William Ruto’s administration to bestow the Head of State Commendation, one of the country’s highest civilian honours, in recognition of her environmental activism.
He added: “Her actions demonstrate true patriotism and service to the nation. Such dedication deserves local and international recognition.”
Record-Breaking Protest
Muthoni made headlines nationwide after setting a new Guinness World Record for the longest time spent hugging a tree — an astonishing 72 hours. The challenge, which she completed without eating or sleeping, also included a dry fast and was staged as a silent protest against deforestation.
She began the record attempt on December 8, surpassing her own previous record of 48 hours. Muthoni described the demonstration as a “neutral, peaceful” way to urge Kenyans to reflect on the accelerating destruction of forests.
The symbolic act drew widespread attention, with crowds gathering outside the Nyeri Governor’s office, where the attempt took place, to offer support as she pushed through the gruelling final hours of the challenge.
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, who flagged off the tree-hugging event, hailed her as a “powerful voice for conservation”, while Kenyans across the country sent messages of encouragement throughout the attempt.
Leaders Praise Her Dedication
A number of national leaders applauded Muthoni’s achievement, describing her feat as a bold reminder of the urgency of the climate crisis. Among them was Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris, who praised the activist’s resolve and creativity in drawing attention to environmental destruction.
“I applaud you for the courage, the strength, but most of all, the audacity,” Passaris said. “The audacity to silence the noise, to follow the drumbeat of your heart, the audacity to speak for the environment without even saying a word. I truly admire it.”
Environmental groups have also expressed support for calls to honour Muthoni, arguing that her symbolic protest has done more to spark national climate conversations than many policy statements.
The government has yet to issue an official response, but the pressure to recognise Muthoni is expected to intensify as Kenya marks this year’s Jamhuri Day celebrations.
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Kenyan Government Urged to Honour Climate Activist Truphena Muthoni After Record-Breaking Tree-Hugging Feat