A pastor from Murang’a County named James Irungu, often called Pastor Jimmy, has started an attempt to hug a tree for 80 hours straight. He wants to beat the recent 72-hour mark set by environmental activist Truphena Muthoni. The challenge began in Murang’a Town and focuses on raising awareness for tree conservation.
Irungu announced the effort on social media recently. Photos and videos show him wrapped around a tree, with supporters nearby. He says the long hug highlights the need to protect forests and fight climate change. Many in Kenya face issues like deforestation for farming or charcoal.
This comes shortly after Truphena Muthoni’s high-profile attempt. In December 2025, the young activist from Nyeri hugged a tree for 72 hours nonstop. She aimed to break her own official Guinness World Record of 48 hours, set earlier in the year in Nairobi. Guinness confirmed the 48-hour record, but her 72-hour push gained lots of attention online and in the news. Some reports say she completed it, though official ratification takes time.
Irungu’s plan goes further with 80 hours. He calls it a way to echo Muthoni’s message and push for more tree planting. Posts describe him standing firm, allowing short breaks only for basics under record rules. Locals visit the spot to cheer him on.
Tree hugging as a protest or record attempt has grown in Kenya. Muthoni used hers to talk about mental health benefits from nature and indigenous tree protection. She trained for months with long walks and practice hugs. Her efforts inspired others, including Irungu.
These stunts draw mixed views. Supporters like the creative way to spotlight environment issues. Kenya loses forest cover yearly, affecting water and wildlife. Critics wonder if long hugs make real change or just get views.
Guinness has strict guidelines for such records. Witnesses must watch constantly, no extra support is allowed, and evidence must be submitted. Muthoni’s 48-hour win followed those rules. Irungu might apply too if he finishes.
In Murang’a, known for tea and coffee farms, land pressure leads to tree cutting. Irungu’s location in town makes it easy for people to stop by. He shares updates, urging followers to plant trees.
Similar attempts happened elsewhere. A Ghanaian held a shorter record before Muthoni. Now, Kenyans lead in this category.
As days pass, Irungu deals with tiredness, weather, and bugs. Supporters bring encouragement. The challenge could end soon, depending on his start date.
Muthoni congratulated efforts like this in past posts. She sees them as building momentum for conservation.
Whether Guinness recognises the new times or not, these actions keep conversations going about Kenya’s environment. People discuss planting more trees at home or supporting policies.
For now, attention stays on Irungu in Murang’a. Locals and online followers track progress. It shows how one person’s stand can spark wider talk.
