Guinness World Records has released a statement addressing Truphena Muthoni’s 72-hour tree-hugging attempt held this week.
In a statement on Friday, December 12, the organisation clarified that the verification process is still ongoing and that no new record has been confirmed yet.
Guinness World Records noted that while supporters are eagerly waiting for the outcome, the submitted evidence must first be reviewed.
"Truphena Muthoni's tree hugging record attempt this week in Kenya, inspired by "a deep-rooted passion for trees and the vital role they play in our ecosystem" has in turn inspired many comments on our social channels.
"We know Truphena's fans are excited to hear the results and we look forward to receiving and assessing the evidence. For now, her current record stands at 48 hours, achieved earlier this year in Nairobi," the organisation said.
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Muthoni on Monday, December 8, launched a 72-hour tree-hugging marathon in Nyeri.
According to Muthoni, the mission is aimed at breaking her own record while raising awareness on the protection of indigenous forests.
"My name is Truphena Muthoni. I am a guardian of the forests, an advocate of indigenous peoples and trees, and a world record holder for the longest marathon hugging a tree.
"I'm here in Nyeri at the Office of the Governor for a groundbreaking 72 hours of environmental endurance to break my own world record and also to advocate for the protection of indigenous trees," she said.
Muthoni stated that her choice of action goes beyond symbolism, noting its therapeutic value and global relevance.
"The reason for hugging trees is that it's therapeutic, and we have a lot of mental health crises across the world that are directly involved with environmental degradation," she added
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga commended her determination, highlighting the message her endurance sends to young people and the broader public.
"It's not easy standing here hugging a tree for the last 24 hours, and it's not going to be easy standing for 72 hours, but the message we should get is that everything is possible if we remain focused.
"I want to speak to the youth and remind them that she is only 22; think about her if she is going to live to 80. How many things will she do that will put her all over the map of the world?," he posed.
In his message, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua urged Muthoni to remain steadfast as she attempts to break the Guinness World Record.
"Truphena Muthoni, push on, my daughter. I strongly encourage you in your conservation resolve to not only break your record in the Guinness World Records of hugging a tree but also the awareness creation on environmental conservation and mental health challenges attached," he said on Wednesday, December 10.
Gachagua praised Muthoni for attempting the 72-hour tree-hugging challenge, noting that it is a reminder for the world to conserve the environment.
Further, the former Deputy President assured the 22-year-old environmentalist of his support in the challenge.
"As a father and a leader, I am truly proud of you and wish you success. Your 72-hour challenge is a great reminder that the world needs to take time and take care of our common home.
"Your futuristic thoughts must prick the mind of the world to reset thoughts on conservation and mental health challenges. I am with you every step of the way," he added.
