In an extraordinary demonstration of dedication to the environment, 22-year-old Kenyan activist Truphena Muthoni has officially broken the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon hugging a tree, clocking an impressive 72 consecutive hours.
The record-breaking feat took place outside the Nyeri County Governor’s office on December 11, 2025, where Muthoni embraced a royal palm tree through sun and rain.
Kenyan activist embraces a royal palm tree for 72 hours
She surpassed the previous record of approximately 50 hours held by Frederick Boakye of Ghana.
This marked Muthoni’s second attempt at the record, following her earlier achievement of 48 hours in early 2025.
Speaking about her motivation, she said, “Hugging a tree shows that nature is not separate from us, it is family.”
President Ruto honours Muthoni with Head of State Commendation
Her campaign aimed to raise awareness about protecting indigenous trees and emphasizing the urgency of environmental conservation amid climate change challenges.
The 72-hour challenge tested Muthoni’s physical and mental endurance as she stayed awake and in constant contact with the tree for three full days.
Following Guinness World Records’ ratification on January 26, 2026, President William Ruto awarded her the Head of State Commendation (HSC) and appointed her as an ambassador for Kenya’s 15 Billion Tree Planting Campaign.
Her achievement has sparked widespread support, with local businesses offering rewards ranging from financial pledges to holiday packages in recognition of her resilience.
Muthoni hopes her feat will inspire others to “nurture a million hearts that care” and take actionable steps in environmental protection, particularly through tree planting and conservation campaigns.
Watch the video below…
Truphena Muthoni from Kenya has set the record for longest marathon hugging a tree with an unbelievable total of 72 hours.
“Hugging a tree shows that nature is not separate from us, it is family.” pic.twitter.com/mf4R9UCRRj
— Guinness World Records (@GWR) January 26, 2026
