22-year-old environmentalist Truphena Muthoni has set a new Guinness World Record after hugging a tree for 72 hours.
The wildlife activist, who began the challenge on December 8, achieved the feat without eating or sleeping for three consecutive days.
Truphena was attempting to shatter her own previous world record of 48 hours, choosing the silent protest as a stand against deforestation and a neutral way to connect with people's consciences.
"The importance of this peaceful protest is that it bypasses all differences, because during the other protests we hear stories of goons, but this one bypasses all stories and triggers humanity," she said, adding that the tree-hugging process is therapeutic and reinforces her call for environmental conservation.
Truphena received recognition nationwide for her attempt, drawing the attention of national and local leaders.
Her three-day tree-hugging marathon was flagged off by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, who has been a pillar of support to the 22-year-old, motivating her to break the record.
Pan-Africanist and advocate PLO Lumumba travelled to Nyeri on the second day to support her. At the same time, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also congratulated her on his social media platform.
The media, both online and mainstream, have also shown support by highlighting and airing her attempt, while locals gathered around the Nyeri Governor's office to provide emotional encouragement.
Beyond national recognition and the emotional support she has received, several Kenyans have also stepped forward with generous gifts to honour her resilience.
Among a significant monetary pledge, a high-end smartphone, and an all-expenses-paid holiday, tokens of admiration for her extraordinary endurance.
A betting company has promised to award Truphena a whole Ksh1 million after breaking the world record.
Another individual also promised her Ksh100,000 to cover the fees required to file her record with Guinness World Records.
A company selling and repairing phones in the country also promised a brand-new Samsung Galaxy Fold 7 phone. A beauty shop offered a skincare package and perfumes, while a fashion designer pledged three months' worth of custom suits.
A tour travel company also offered her an all-expense-paid holiday on the Kenyan coast for three days, together with her guardian or parent.
Ultimately, the official reward from the Guinness World Records organisation is the formal certification and global recognition.
With her attempt now a reality, Truphena holds the Guinness World Record for the longest time spent hugging a tree.
