Passaris celebrates Truphena Muthoni for breaking tree-hugging record
Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has penned a heartfelt message congratulating 22-year-old environmental champion Truphena Muthoni after she successfully completed her 72-hour tree-hugging challenge, a feat aimed at securing a Guinness World Record.
In a statement on Thursday, December 11, 2025, Passaris praised Truphena’s courage, resilience and boldness.
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“The last time I hugged a tree…well, let’s just say it didn’t last 72 hours. But you did, and I applaud you for the courage, the strength, but most of all, the audacity; the audacity to silence the noise, to follow the drumbeat of your heart, and the audacity to speak for the environment without even saying a word. I truly admire it,” she stated.
Passaris, who is currently in Uganda for the EALA Games representing Kenya, said she would have loved to witness the historic moment in person but is eager to learn more about Truphena’s mission and environmental advocacy.
“I’d be happy to hear more about your cause, and if this is you at 22, I cannot wait to see what more you will bring to the world. God bless you, and God bless our environment.”
The environmental activist completed the challenge on Thursday, December 11, 2025, amid loud cheers, ululation, and overwhelming support from the public.
Throughout the challenge, Truphena remained rooted, literally hugging a single tree for three continuous days in an effort to raise awareness about the need to protect forests and wildlife.
Truphena began her 72-hour marathon on December 8, 2025, in Nyeri County, drawing nationwide attention.
Her goal was to break her own Guinness World Record, which she set earlier this year after hugging a tree for 48 hours at Nairobi’s Michuki Memorial Park.
Her earlier feat earned her national recognition and praise from environmental groups. She said then that nature had helped her heal emotionally, and she hoped her actions would help others talk more openly about mental health.
This new challenge is meant to raise awareness about deforestation, climate change, and mental-health struggles among young people. Truphena has also included a three-hour blindfolded segment to highlight the experiences of visually impaired people and to link conservation to social justice.
