Truphena Muthoni Breaks Tree-Hugging Record Amid Cheers in Nyeri

Environmental activist Truphena Muthoni has broken her own 72-hour tree-hugging record, completing the marathon challenge on Thursday, December 11, 2025. The 22-year-old marked the finish surrounded by loud cheers, ululation, and steady support from Nyeri residents who had followed her journey closely. Her determination to stay rooted to a single tree for three continuous days created a moment that blended activism, endurance, and community solidarity.

Truphena began her marathon on December 8 in Nyeri County with the intention of surpassing her earlier Guinness World Record. Her previous 48-hour tree hug at Nairobi’s Michuki Memorial Park brought her national recognition and praise from environmental groups. At the time, she shared that nature had helped her heal emotionally, and she hoped her actions would help others talk more openly about mental health. Her new challenge expanded this mission by connecting conservation, climate awareness, and the mental-health struggles experienced by many young people.

What Motivated Her 72-Hour Tree-Hugging Challenge?

Truphena’s motivation for this challenge was rooted in advocacy for forests, wildlife, and vulnerable communities impacted by climate change. The 72-hour marathon aimed to raise awareness about deforestation and inspire conversations around environmental responsibility. She also incorporated a three-hour blindfolded segment to draw attention to the experiences of visually impaired individuals and to show how social justice and environmental justice often intersect.

Throughout the marathon, Nyeri residents, local leaders, and fellow environmental activists visited the site to encourage her. Their presence reinforced the importance of community support in environmental movements and highlighted how individual acts of protest can gain national traction.

Why Do Her Colours Matter in This Protest?

A major point of interest during Truphena’s challenge was her symbolic choice of clothing colours. She explained during a local interview on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, that every colour she wore served as a form of visual protest. She stated that black represents African power, protest, and resilience. For her, black communicates that environmental protection is deeply connected to African identity and dignity.

The green elements on her clothing symbolise reforestation, regeneration, and hope. As she hugged the tree, green stood for the future she envisions, one where forests are restored and ecosystems are alive for generations to rely on. Red carried a message of indigenous resistance and frontline courage, reflecting the long-standing ecological battles fought by indigenous communities. Blue represented water protectors and ocean defenders, linking her protest to global environmental struggles.

Her explanation was clear and intentional: “Black means African power, protest and resilience, green is for reforestation, regeneration and hope, while red means indigenous resistance and frontline courage and blue water protectors and ocean defenders,” Truphena said.

Her story continues to inspire young people across the country, not only for its endurance but also for its powerful message that meaningful change can begin with simple, symbolic actions grounded in purpose and conviction.

By Yockshard Enyendi