Kenyan environmentalist Truphena Muthoni has revealed that she faced significant obstacles from government agencies while preparing to break the 72-hour tree-hugging world record.
Speaking on Citizen TV on Sunday night, Muthoni said her efforts to gain official support were unsuccessful despite multiple requests.
The 22-year-old, known for her activism in forest and indigenous tree conservation, disclosed that she had sought accreditation support to attend COP 30, the UN Climate Change Conference originally planned in Brazil.
According to Muthoni, her requests to the Ministry of Environment were declined, forcing her to organize and execute the record-setting attempt within Kenya.
“This record I did in Kenya was supposed to happen in Brazil,” Muthoni told the television audience.
“When I was trying to achieve what I have already achieved, I did not get any support. I had requested support in different ways, but I did not get support from the Ministry of Environment.”
Muthoni’s world record involved continuous hugging of a tree for 72 hours, a symbolic gesture aimed at raising awareness about deforestation and the protection of indigenous forests.
Environmental analysts say such individual-led initiatives underscore gaps in government support for local environmental champions.
Kenya has ratified international climate agreements but has often faced criticism for inadequate funding and logistical backing for grassroots activists seeking global platforms.
While Muthoni’s achievement has sparked widespread praise, the Ministry of Environment has yet to respond publicly to her claims.
Muthoni, who also identifies as an artist, stated that she remains committed to her environmental work and plans to continue advocating for forest conservation across Kenya.