Celebrations erupted at John Michuki Memorial Park as Truphena Muthoni achieved a historic feat by setting a new Guinness World Record for the longest tree-hugging marathon.
Muthoni surpassed the previous record of 24 hours and 21 minutes, marking a significant milestone in environmental conservation efforts.
The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) commended her dedication, revealing that she is now aiming to extend her record to an impressive 48 hours.
KFS highlighted the impact of her achievement, emphasizing the power of simple actions like tree-hugging in promoting healing and environmental awareness.
“As we celebrate her dedication, let’s remember to embrace and protect nature every day,” KFS stated.
According to the agency, Muthoni’s record-breaking challenge underscores the therapeutic benefits of nature and the urgency of forest conservation efforts.
Muthoni encouraged more people to embrace tree-hugging, noting its mental health benefits and ability to restore inner peace.
“I encourage people to embrace the culture of tree-hugging because it is good to boost our mental health and recharge ourselves,” she said.
She further pointed out that with increasing urbanization, people need to reconnect with nature to experience its profound healing effects.
The environmentalist disclosed that her journey to breaking the record involved months of preparation, including fasting and endurance training.
“I have trained my body to stay without meals and drinks by fasting and sometimes having one meal a day. I have trained myself to not go to the toilet for 48 hours, it is all in the mind,” she added.
Former Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba also praised Muthoni for her determination, calling her achievement a global inspiration.
“Congratulations Muthoni for your incredible tree-hugging world record achievement last evening at Michuki Park in Nairobi. Your historic feat has drawn global attention to the phenomenal power of the youth to be consequential champions for climate action, sustainability and deploying nature for mental health and wellness,” said Namwamba.
“Your Wangari Maathai spirit inspires us all to step forward and make the earth better, safer, and sustainable, for ourselves and generations yonder. Delighted to witness you write history live. Hongera Shujaa.”
Muthoni’s accomplishment has drawn admiration from environmentalists and climate advocates, reinforcing the importance of preserving nature and promoting sustainable living.