Iten Community Celebrates Athlete Njuguna’s 72-Hour Tree-Hugging Protest Against GBV and Doping

 The Iten community has come together to celebrate athlete Joseph Njuguna after he completed a remarkable 72-hour tree-hugging protest to raise awareness against gender-based violence (GBV) and doping in sports.

Njuguna, who is currently in stable condition at ICRH, hugged a tree continuously for three days as a symbolic act highlighting the importance of resilience, unity, and peaceful advocacy. His gesture has resonated strongly with residents and online audiences alike, earning widespread praise for its creativity and courage.

Award-winning teacher and GBV activist Shokwei Barsulai congratulated Njuguna for his extraordinary demonstration. “Love is a beautiful thing. This is Iten, our home, where we stand together, support each other, and lift one another up. Thank you, Njuguna, for bringing us together with one voice. Truly, this is the doing of the Lord, and the message resonates loudly in our hearts,” Barsulai said.

The athlete’s message was clear: “Say no to GBV and doping.” Residents and supporters commended Njuguna for using an unconventional method to draw attention to critical social issues affecting the youth and athletes in the region.

Community members expressed their gratitude and solidarity, highlighting that such acts of courage can inspire dialogue, reconciliation, and action. Social media platforms have since been flooded with messages of support, with many describing the protest as a powerful example of peaceful advocacy through endurance and symbolism.

Njuguna’s protest underscores the role of athletes and young leaders in championing social causes, demonstrating that activism can take many forms beyond traditional methods of advocacy. His act has sparked conversations on GBV prevention and the promotion of ethical sportsmanship across Elgeyo Marakwet County and beyond.

Residents and activists continue to rally around Njuguna, emphasizing the importance of community solidarity in promoting peace, gender equality, and responsible sporting culture.