President William Ruto has praised and rewarded environmental activist Truphena Muthoni following her record-breaking act of spending 72 continuous hours embracing an indigenous tree, a symbolic protest aimed at drawing attention to environmental conservation and climate change.
In a statement issued after hosting Muthoni at State House, the President described her as “an exemplary young Kenyan whose dedication and determination embody the very best of our nation’s spirit,” noting that her action had resonated both locally and internationally at a time when climate change remains one of the world’s most urgent challenges.
Ruto said he met Truphena in his office to personally acknowledge what he termed a “remarkable and deeply symbolic gesture,” adding that the tree-hugging marathon had succeeded in sparking conversations around the protection of indigenous trees, forests and ecosystems.
“I had the pleasure of engaging with her in my office following her remarkable and record-breaking act of spending 72 continuous hours embracing an indigenous tree,” the President said. “It was a powerful act aimed at raising national and global awareness on environmental conservation and climate change.”
As part of the recognition, the President appointed Truphena as an Ambassador of the 15 Billion Tree Planting Campaign, a flagship government initiative seeking to restore degraded landscapes and boost Kenya’s tree cover as part of long-term climate action.
“In recognition of her courage, fortitude, and laudable leadership, I have appointed her as an Ambassador of the 15 Billion Tree Planting Campaign,” Ruto announced, saying the role would see her play an active part in mobilising communities, especially young people, around environmental stewardship.
The Head of State also revealed additional rewards extended to Muthoni in appreciation of her activism. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) have jointly offered her and her team a fully sponsored holiday experience, a move the President said was meant to acknowledge her contribution while also exposing her to Kenya’s rich natural heritage.
Beyond that, the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry will support Muthoni’s ambition to travel abroad to learn from other conservation efforts.
“The Ministry will support the realization of her dream to visit Brazil, broadening her exposure to global conservation initiatives and environmental leadership,” Ruto said, noting that international exposure would strengthen her impact back home.
In a rare honour for a young environmental activist, the President also conferred on Muthoni the Head of State Commendation (HSC) Medal, recognising her service to environmental protection and climate advocacy.
“As a mark of national honour for her exemplary service to environmental stewardship, I have conferred upon Truphena Muthoni the Head of State Commendation (HSC) Medal,” he said.
The recognition comes as Kenya intensifies efforts to combat climate change through tree planting, ecosystem restoration and community-led conservation. The 15 Billion Tree Campaign, launched by the government, aims to increase forest cover, improve livelihoods and build resilience against climate shocks.
Truphena’s activism has been widely lauded as an example of youth-led environmental action, with government officials saying her story underscores the role individuals can play in shaping national and global conversations on climate change.
Read Also: 30 Plus Free Scholarships For Kenyans To Study In UK Universities