Ruto Taps Tree-Hugging Sensation Truphena Muthoni to Champion Reforestation Drive

President William Ruto on Monday hosted celebrated environmental activist Truphena Muthoni at State House, rolling out the red carpet in recognition of her extraordinary commitment to environmental conservation and climate action in Kenya.

The meeting crowned days of national attention after Muthoni completed a gruelling 72-hour tree-hugging endurance challenge in Nyeri County, an act that pushed the boundaries of environmental activism and sparked widespread public conversation on forest conservation.

The feat marked her second bold attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest tree-hugging marathon. She had previously captured public admiration after successfully completing a 48-hour challenge, firmly establishing herself as a rising symbol of grassroots environmental leadership in Kenya.

President Ruto quickly moved to align Muthoni’s growing influence with the country’s climate ambitions by appointing her an official ambassador of the 15 Billion Tree Planting Campaign. The flagship government initiative seeks to restore degraded landscapes, reverse environmental damage, and combat climate change through massive expansion of tree cover across the country.

The campaign forms a central pillar of Kenya’s climate action strategy and reflects the government’s long-term vision to secure a greener and more resilient environmental future.

“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,” President Ruto announced.

The Head of State also praised Muthoni’s innovative and symbolic approach to environmental advocacy, noting that her creative activism has successfully rallied Kenyans around the urgent need to protect forests and natural ecosystems.

National Agencies Rally Behind Environmental Hero

Muthoni’s inspiring efforts have drawn strong backing from key state agencies. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) jointly awarded her and her team a fully sponsored holiday, acknowledging the intense physical and emotional demands of the 72-hour endurance challenge.

The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry further pledged to support Muthoni’s long-held dream of visiting Brazil. The move is expected to expose her to global conservation initiatives, connect her with international environmental leaders, and strengthen her capacity to champion sustainable environmental change back home.

The State House meeting also featured a light-hearted moment that quickly went viral online. During a playful exchange, Muthoni challenged the President to test his own tree-hugging stamina.

“I hugged a tree for 72 hours, how long can you go?” she asked.

President Ruto responded with laughter, saying, “My dear, I do many things, but I do not want to try that one. That one I leave it to you. My job will be to cheer you on.”

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