A man named Paul Kago collapsed from hunger and exhaustion less than 24 hours into his 96-hour tree-hugging challenge in Nanyuki. The incident happened on January 11, 2026. He was immediately rushed to a local hospital for treatment. Doctors described his condition as stable but serious after the sudden weakness.
Paul Kago started the challenge on the morning of January 10. He chose a tree along the main road in Nanyuki town center, near the market area. His sign read that he would hug the tree for four full days to call for peace and unity ahead of the 2027 general election.
He wanted leaders and voters to avoid violence during campaigns. Many Kenyans remember the post-election clashes in 2007 and 2022. Paul said he hoped his action would remind people to stay calm and talk instead of fight.
At first, a small crowd gathered. Some people took photos. Others offered water and words of encouragement. Paul stood quietly, arms around the tree, speaking only when asked questions. He explained he had eaten little to prepare his body. He drank water but skipped solid food to show dedication. Supporters shared the images on WhatsApp and Facebook. The post spread to nearby towns and as far as Nairobi.
By late evening on the first day, Paul started looking tired. Friends checked on him regularly. Around 3 a.m. on January 11, he felt dizzy and sat down. His legs gave way soon after. Bystanders called for help. An ambulance from Nanyuki Teaching and Referral Hospital arrived quickly. Medical staff gave him fluids on the spot before taking him in.
Hospital sources said Paul was severely dehydrated and had low blood sugar from not eating. He spent the night under observation. Doctors advised rest and proper nutrition. They said he could recover fully if he takes it easy now. Paul spoke briefly to family from his bed. He apologized for worrying them but said he still believes in the message of peace.
The challenge was not the first of its kind in Kenya. In late 2025, several people hugged trees for different causes. One woman in Nyeri stayed by a tree for 72 hours to protest forest destruction. A teenager in Nairobi did it for 50 hours to raise money for sick relatives. Health officials later asked people to stop because of risks like dehydration and fainting.
Paul’s case added to those warnings. Doctors say going without food for long periods is dangerous, especially in hot weather. Nanyuki sits at a high altitude, which can make physical effort harder. Standing still for hours also strains muscles and circulation.
Social media reactions came fast. Many admired Paul’s courage. Comments said his heart was in the right place. Others worried about his health and called the idea unsafe. A few joked that leaders might not notice even if he stayed longer. Some shared stories of their own election fears from past years.
The 2027 election is still far away. Campaigns have not officially started. Yet tensions already show in some counties. Paul’s action reminds people that peace takes effort from everyone. Whether his stand changes anything remains to be seen.
For now, Paul rests in the hospital. Doctors expect him to go home soon with advice to eat properly. Supporters plan to visit and bring food. The tree still stands where he left it. A few people have stopped by to take photos.
This quiet protest has put a spotlight on Nanyuki for a moment. It also shows how ordinary Kenyans sometimes take big steps to speak about issues close to their hearts.