Young Environmentalist Truphena Muthoni Honoured After Record-Breaking Tree Hug

President William Ruto has conferred the Head of State Commendation (HSC) on young environmentalist Truphena Muthoni in recognition of her extraordinary environmental activism and commitment to climate conservation.

Muthoni received the honour at State House, where she also planted a tree in a symbolic ceremony flanked by President Ruto and Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki. The award follows her record-breaking feat of hugging an indigenous tree continuously for 72 hours, an act aimed at raising awareness about environmental conservation and the effects of climate change.

“I had the pleasure of meeting this remarkable young woman following her extraordinary act of hugging an indigenous tree for 72 continuous hours — a deeply symbolic and inspiring gesture to raise awareness about environmental conservation and climate change,” President Ruto said.

“As a mark of national honour for her exemplary work, I have conferred upon Truphena Muthoni the Head of State Commendation Medal. She represents Kenya’s spirit of courage, determination, and environmental stewardship,” the President added.

The record-breaking event took place in Nyeri County, where Muthoni said her motivation was to draw attention to the urgent need to protect indigenous trees and restore ecosystems threatened by deforestation.

“I am a guardian of forests and an advocate for indigenous people,” she told the press ahead of the challenge. “Hugging trees is both therapeutic and symbolic — a way to reconnect with nature and address the mental health challenges that arise from environmental degradation.”

Muthoni also linked environmental conservation to mental wellness, noting that environmental imbalance has contributed to rising stress and anxiety in many communities.

“Before we plant a million trees, we must also heal a million hurting hearts,” she said. “Nature has a healing effect. When we care for the environment, we care for ourselves.”

Her recognition comes amid the government’s push to increase forest cover and promote environmental stewardship across the country, with leaders urging Kenyans, especially the youth, to take an active role in protecting natural resources.