Dama Wa Spare Defends Truphena Muthoni as Tree-Hugging Challenge Sparks Criticism

Damaris Muriithi, widely known as Dama Wa Spare, has strongly defended environmental activist Truphena Muthoni as the 22-year-old approaches the end of her ambitious 72-hour tree-hugging challenge in Nyeri. In a statement shared on her official Instagram account on Thursday, December 11, 2025, Dama praised Truphena for her courage, commitment, and purpose-driven determination. She described her as a young woman whose actions reflect resilience and a deep love for nature.

Dama celebrated Truphena as an inspiration to many, highlighting that her effort represents focus, bravery, and a powerful message about environmental protection. She shared her support with a message that read, “A true nature advocate. Courage, focus, goal, dreams, resilience, no human is limited, a woman without limits. Girl child making history, girl child breaking records. Go, go, go.”

Although Dama’s message was uplifting, she also expressed disappointment toward women who have been criticising or mocking Truphena’s challenge instead of showing support. She called out those engaging in negativity, stating, “To women criticising her instead of supporting her to achieve her dream, it’s a shame!”

Truphena is expected to complete her 72-hour marathon at 12:30 pm on Thursday, December 11, 2025. Her challenge began on December 8 in Nyeri County and has drawn nationwide attention, both for its endurance aspect and its deeper environmental meaning.

Why Has Truphena Committed to a 72-Hour Tree Hug?

Truphena’s goal for this challenge is to advocate for stronger action against deforestation and to promote the protection of animal rights. Her tree-hugging marathon is a silent protest designed to bring attention to the environmental issues affecting Kenya and the wider world. The challenge also aims to set a new Guinness World Record by surpassing her own previous record of 48 hours, achieved earlier this year at Nairobi’s Michuki Memorial Park.

Her current protest is visually symbolic as well. The colours she wears have captured public interest, turning her into a moving representation of environmental justice. Each colour communicates meaning tied to conservation, identity, and resilience, making her message clear even without spoken words. Her approach shows that activism can be gentle while still delivering a strong statement.

What Impact Did Her Previous World Record Have?

Truphena’s earlier 48-hour record brought her national recognition and support from environmental groups. During that challenge, she shared that nature had played an important role in her emotional healing. She hoped her actions would encourage more open discussions around mental health among young people.

Her current 72-hour challenge expands that mission. Beyond climate awareness, she has introduced a three-hour blindfolded segment to represent the experiences of visually impaired individuals and to connect environmental advocacy with broader conversations on social justice.

As Truphena nears the completion of her new record attempt, support continues to grow. Her journey reflects not only endurance but also a rising movement among young people demanding attention, respect, and justice for the environment and their communities.

By Yockshard Enyendi