In a message shared on Thursday, December 11, Passaris applauded Muthoni’s resilience and boldness, noting that the feat required remarkable mental and physical strength.
“Dear Truphena Muthoni, the last time I hugged a tree, it certainly didn’t last 72 hours. But you did. And I applaud you for the courage, the strength, and most importantly, the audacity—the bravery to shut out the noise, follow your heart, and speak for the environment without uttering a word. I truly admire it,” Passaris wrote.
She expressed regret that she could not attend the challenge in person, explaining that she was outside the country representing Kenya in the EALA Games in Uganda.
“I would have loved to witness your achievement firsthand, but duty called. I’m away for the EALA Games. I would be happy to hear more about your cause.
And if this is you at 22, I can only imagine the impact you will make in the years ahead. God bless you, and God bless our environment,” she added.
Muthoni completed her 72-hour challenge on Thursday at the Nyeri County Governor’s office, surpassing her earlier record of 48 hours and 22 minutes, which she set in February 2025 at Nairobi’s Michuki Memorial Park.
The tree-hugging marathon began on Tuesday, December 8, at 12:20 p.m. Its purpose was to raise awareness about indigenous trees, the importance of protecting indigenous communities, and the need for disability inclusion.
Muthoni completed her 72-hour challenge on Thursday at the Nyeri County Governor’s office, surpassing her earlier record of 48 hours and 22 minutes, which she set in February 2025 at Nairobi’s Michuki Memorial Park.
The tree-hugging marathon began on Tuesday, December 8, at 12:20 p.m. Its purpose was to raise awareness about indigenous trees, the importance of protecting indigenous communities, and the need for disability inclusion.
During the challenge, Muthoni included a three-hour blindfold session to highlight the experience of persons with visual impairments.
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, who closely followed her progress, confirmed that Muthoni would undergo medical checks to ensure she was in good health.
“Once she’s done, we will take her for a check-up to make sure everything is fine. Later, she will join us at the ongoing youth conference,” he said.
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, who closely followed her progress, confirmed that Muthoni would undergo medical checks to ensure she was in good health.
“Once she’s done, we will take her for a check-up to make sure everything is fine. Later, she will join us at the ongoing youth conference,” he said.
He also shared his belief in the healing benefits of tree hugging.
The record attempt attracted strong support from different individuals and organisations. OdiBets pledged KSh 1 million, Adequate Safaris offered a three-night holiday in Mombasa, and Damaris of Dama Spares Original gifted Muthoni a Samsung Galaxy Fold 7.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also encouraged her, commending her efforts in environmental conservation and mental health advocacy.
The record attempt attracted strong support from different individuals and organisations. OdiBets pledged KSh 1 million, Adequate Safaris offered a three-night holiday in Mombasa, and Damaris of Dama Spares Original gifted Muthoni a Samsung Galaxy Fold 7.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also encouraged her, commending her efforts in environmental conservation and mental health advocacy.
