President Ruto Declines Truphena Muthoni’s Record-Breaking Tree Hug Challenge, Rewards Her Efforts
Environmental activist Truphena Muthoni had a lighthearted yet impactful encounter with President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, on Monday, where she challenged the Head of State with an unusual question: how long he could endure hugging a tree.
In a video shared on her official X account, Muthoni, who recently completed a record-breaking 72-hour continuous tree hug, asked President Ruto, “So I hugged a tree for seventy-two hours, and how long can you go?”
President Ruto responded with amusement, noting that while he could not match her feat, he would wholeheartedly support her mission. “My dear, I do many things, but I do not want to try that one; that one I leave to you. As for me, my job will be to cheer you on,” he said.
The President also recognised Muthoni’s achievement with official honours. In a statement on his official X account, Ruto announced that he had awarded the activist the prestigious Head of State’s Commendation (HSC) for her exemplary contributions to environmental stewardship.
“Truphena Muthoni is an exemplary young Kenyan whose dedication and determination embody the very best of our nation’s spirit. I had the pleasure of engaging with her in my office following her remarkable and record-breaking act of spending 72 continuous hours embracing an indigenous tree, a deeply symbolic gesture aimed at raising national and global awareness on environmental conservation and climate change,” Ruto said.
Further underlining her role in environmental advocacy, President Ruto appointed Muthoni as an Ambassador of the 15 Billion Tree Planting Campaign, Kenya’s flagship initiative aimed at securing the country’s environmental future. “In recognition of her courage, fortitude, and laudable leadership, I have appointed her as an Ambassador of the 15 Billion Tree Planting Campaign, a signature national initiative dedicated to securing Kenya’s environmental future,” he added.
In addition to the commendation and ambassadorial role, Ruto announced that the Kenya Wildlife Service and Kenya Tourism Board would sponsor a holiday experience for Muthoni and her team in appreciation of their efforts. The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry will also facilitate her dream to visit Brazil, providing exposure to international conservation strategies and environmental leadership.
Truphena Muthoni’s achievement has drawn attention both nationally and internationally, highlighting the growing importance of environmental conservation and climate awareness. Her symbolic 72-hour tree hug underscores a broader call to action for preserving Kenya’s forests and natural resources.
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President Ruto Declines Truphena Muthoni’s Record-Breaking Tree Hug Challenge, Rewards Her Efforts