Kenya’s green activism has a new face. Truphena Muthoni, popularly known as Muthoni Baby Top, has officially been recognised by Guinness World Records (GWR) for hugging a tree continuously for 48 hours, a feat that has captured the imagination of Kenyans and the world.
Guinness World Records Recognition
On December 12, 2025, Guinness World Records publicly confirmed Truphena’s achievement, just days after she attempted an even longer 72‑hour hug in Nyeri.
In a private email, GWR wrote:
“We are thrilled to inform you that your application for Longest marathon hugging a tree has been successful and you are now a successful record holder.”
The organisation also guided her on how to obtain official certificates, frames, and merchandise reserved for record holders.
Why Hug a Tree?
Truphena first set her 48‑hour record earlier in the year, from January 31 to February 2, 2025, at Michuki Park in Nairobi.
Her motivation was clear. As GWR highlighted:
“Truphena says she took on this record challenge to raise awareness about the profound impact of tree hugging on mental and emotional well‑being.”
Her activism is rooted in the belief that connecting with nature can heal both mind and spirit.
Training for the Challenge
Achieving such a record required months of preparation. Truphena trained for over five months, including:
- 42 km walks to build stamina
- 12‑hour test runs hugging a tree
Her resilience allowed her to surpass the previous record by nearly 24 hours.
A New Milestone: 72 Hours
On December 11, 2025, Truphena went further, hugging a tree for 72 hours at the Nyeri Governor’s office. The attempt drew nationwide attention, with Kenyans tagging Guinness World Records across social media to ensure her effort was recognised.
GWR has since urged her to submit official evidence for the 72‑hour attempt, which could make her a double record holder.
Celebrated Across Kenya
Truphena’s achievement has been widely celebrated. Many Kenyans and leaders have likened her to Wangari Maathai, the Nobel laureate who championed environmental conservation.
Her story is not just about endurance; it’s about sparking conversations around mental health, emotional well‑being, and environmental stewardship.
Recognition from President Ruto
On Monday, December 15, 2025, President William Ruto hosted Truphena at State House, commending her for her courage and symbolic activism.
“A deeply symbolic gesture aimed at raising national and global awareness on environmental conservation and climate change,” Ruto said of her tree‑hugging feat.
The president appointed her as an ambassador of the 15 billion tree planting campaign, recognising her leadership and fortitude.
“As a mark of national honour for her exemplary service to environmental stewardship, I have conferred upon Truphena Muthoni the Head of State Commendation (HSC) Medal,” Ruto added.
My environmental engagement with President @WilliamsRuto today in the State House, Nairobi, Kenya. pic.twitter.com/8Dd9RsU22g
— Truphena Muthoni, HSC (@TruphenaMuthon) December 15, 2025
Special Rewards and Global Exposure
Beyond the commendation, Ruto announced that the Kenya Wildlife Service and the Kenya Tourism Board had extended to Truphena and her team a fully sponsored holiday experience.
He further revealed:
“In addition, the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry will support the realization of her dream to visit Brazil, broadening her exposure to global conservation initiatives and environmental leadership.”
A Symbol of Green Resilience
From Michuki Park to Nyeri to State House, Truphena’s journey shows how one person’s determination can inspire a nation. Her tree‑hugging record is more than a headline—it’s a call to embrace nature, care for the environment, and recognise the healing power of green spaces.
