Push on my daughter: Gachagua celebrates Truphena Muthoni in her tree-hugging quest
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has sent an encouraging message to 22-year-old climate and mental-health activist Truphena Muthoni as she attempts a 72-hour tree-hugging challenge in Nyeri.
In a statement shared on his X account on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, Gachagua praised Truphena’s courage and determination.
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He celebrated her drive to break her own Guinness World Record and highlighted how her effort is helping to raise awareness about environmental conservation and mental-health issues. He expressed pride in her commitment, describing her as a source of inspiration to many.
“Truphena Muthoni, push on, my daughter. I strongly encourage you in your conservation resolve to not only break your record in the Guinness World Records of hugging a tree, but also the awareness creation on environmental conservation and the mental health challenges attached. As a father and a leader, I am truly proud of you and wish you success,” he said.
Gachagua also noted that Truphena’s 72-hour challenge is a powerful reminder for the world to slow down and reflect on how well it is taking care of the planet.
He said her forward-thinking approach should spark conversations about sustainability and mental wellness, and he assured her of his full support throughout the challenge.
“Your 72-hour challenge is a great reminder that the world needs to take time and take care of our common home. Your futuristic thoughts must prick the minds of the world to reset thoughts on conservation and mental health challenges. I am with you every step of the way,” Gachagua stated.
Truphena Muthoni’s aim
Truphena began her 72-hour marathon on December 8, 2025, in Nyeri town.
Her goal is 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.
Local leaders, environmental activists, and residents of Nyeri have been stopping by to encourage her as she continues the marathon.
