A 22-year-old environmental campaigner from Nyeri has captured the country’s attention as she pushes through a 72-hour tree-hugging challenge in her bid to set a new Guinness World Record.

Truphena Muthoni has spent days wrapped around the trunk of a single tree in a quiet public spot, drawing crowds both online and in person. Many Kenyans have been following each hour of her attempt, sending encouragement and celebrating what has become a moment of national curiosity and pride.

Among those cheering her on is Jubilee Party Deputy Organising Secretary Pauline Njoroge, who on Wednesday described Muthoni’s effort as a powerful symbol of environmental commitment.

“Truphena Muthoni is not doing this just to break her own Guinness World Record of hugging a tree for 48 hours,” Njoroge wrote on Facebook. “She is doing it to raise awareness on environmental conservation, climate change, and as a quiet but firm protest against deforestation.”

As Muthoni entered her final stretch, Njoroge urged her to keep going. “Go, Muthoni, go. Clock the 72 hours. Another chance to educate us, to sensitise us about protecting and preserving our common home, and to remind us that no human is limited,” she said.

Environmental advocates say the act reflects a global wave of peaceful climate demonstrations, often driven by young people who choose symbolism and endurance over confrontation. Muthoni’s silent protest has resonated widely on social media, where Kenyans have celebrated her grit and message.

Radio host and entertainer Muthoni Wa Kirumba, known as Baby Top, also added her voice. “Truphena, my namesake, you are almost there. Tomorrow at 12:20 pm you will break your record,” she posted, teasing a light-hearted reward familiar to many households: “Ukimaliza hapa ugali on me.”

Organisers and supporters have remained cautiously optimistic as the hours tick down. If Muthoni completes the challenge, she could place Kenya on the global map for youth-driven environmental activism. Yet many say the achievement is already bigger than the clock. Her message — that ordinary acts can spur conversations about conservation — has already taken hold.