Truphena Muthoni Awarded Guinness World Records Badge for 48-Hour Tree Hug

Guinness World Records has officially recognised Kenyan endurance athlete Truphena Muthoni for completing a 48-hour uninterrupted tree-hugging marathon in Nairobi on 2 February 2025.

The organisation confirmed that Muthoni maintained continuous physical contact with a single tree for exactly 48 hours, meeting all requirements for the record. Guinness World Records issued her with a formal certificate and a “Record Breaker” badge after verifying timing logs, video evidence, and supporting documentation. Any loss of contact during the attempt would have led to disqualification.

Muthoni announced the confirmation in a Facebook post, writing: “New Year comes with official Record Breaker Badge.” The recognition places her among record holders whose achievements have passed Guinness World Records’ strict verification process.

Her preparation for the attempt spanned more than five months. It included long-distance walks of up to 42 kilometres, strength training, and repeated practice sessions involving up to 12 hours of continuous tree hugging. She said the training focused on building physical endurance and mental resilience.

In interviews, Muthoni explained that the challenge was intended to promote awareness of the emotional and psychological benefits of connecting with nature. She described tree hugging as a practice that can support mental well-being, alongside being an endurance test.

The 48-hour record exceeds the previous mark of 24 hours and 21 minutes, set by Ghanaian journalist Abdul Hakim Awal in Kumasi. Awal had earlier surpassed a 16-hour record held by Uganda’s Faith Patricia Ariokot. His attempt included an environmental commitment to plant one tree for every minute spent hugging, resulting in 1,461 seedlings being planted.

Following the announcement, Muthoni thanked supporters, saying: “It’s finally home. My 48 hours for the longest marathon hugging a tree have been recorded. Thank you, God. Thank you, Kenyans, for your support.” She added that a subsequent 72-hour tree-hugging attempt is currently under review by Guinness World Records.

While the outcome of the longer attempt is yet to be confirmed, Muthoni’s 48-hour achievement now stands as the longest verified marathon of its kind recorded by Guinness World Records.