By HAB News Desk
NAIROBI — Kenya’s President William Ruto has appointed 22-year-old climate activist Truphena Muthoni as the official ambassador for the country’s ambitious 15 billion tree-planting campaign, a nationwide initiative aimed at combating deforestation and promoting environmental sustainability.
Muthoni, who recently gained international recognition by setting a Guinness World Record for hugging a tree continuously for 72 hours, said her record-breaking effort was meant to highlight the urgent need to protect forests and address climate change. The challenge drew significant attention online and in local media, inspiring thousands to engage with environmental causes.
During the tree-hugging challenge, Muthoni’s outfit carried symbolic meaning. She told local media that the black represented African power and resilience, green symbolized reforestation, red honored indigenous resistance, and blue stood for the protection of water bodies and oceans, underscoring the interconnectedness of environmental conservation efforts.
The 15 billion tree campaign, launched by the Kenyan government, is one of the largest reforestation initiatives in Africa. It aims to restore degraded landscapes, reduce soil erosion, protect biodiversity, and mitigate the impacts of climate change. The project also seeks to involve communities, schools, and youth groups, promoting environmental awareness and creating economic opportunities through tree nurseries and sustainable forestry practices.
As ambassador, Muthoni will spearhead outreach programs to mobilize young people and local communities to actively participate in tree-planting activities and climate advocacy initiatives. Environmental experts have welcomed her appointment, noting that youth leadership is crucial to achieving the long-term goals of the campaign.
“Engaging young activists like Truphena Muthoni ensures that climate action is driven by passion, creativity, and energy,” said Dr. Janet Okello, an environmental policy analyst in Nairobi. “Her story demonstrates how individual commitment can inspire national and even global attention for critical environmental causes.”
Muthoni expressed optimism about the campaign’s potential impact, stating, “Planting trees is not just about the environment—it is about our future, our communities, and our survival. I hope this campaign inspires every Kenyan to take action, no matter how small.”
The government has set ambitious targets, aiming to plant 15 billion trees over the next decade. Experts say such large-scale efforts are essential as Kenya grapples with deforestation, water scarcity, and the growing impacts of climate change.
