No sooner had 22-year-old Kenyan environmentalist Truphena Muthoni broken her own Guinness World Record for hugging a tree than she set her sights on two even more ambitious environmental milestones slated for later this year.
Fresh from her global recognition, Muthoni is now preparing to spearhead a mass mangrove restoration drive in Kwale County on World Turtle Day, marked annually on May 26. During the event, she hopes to coordinate the planting of an extraordinary 1.2 million mangrove trees within just one hour.
“Plans for this event are in high gear, but it will be a collective action. There will be other people and organizations participating,” she said.
The large-scale conservation exercise will bring together multiple stakeholders, including the Kenya Forest Service, the Kwale County Government, the Kenya Scouts Association, and other environmental partners.
Mangroves play a critical role in marine ecosystems, particularly in supporting turtle populations. These coastal forests host plants, algae, crustaceans, and small invertebrates that sustain species such as green turtles and juvenile hawksbill turtles. Their shallow, calm waters allow young turtles to feed while conserving energy and offer natural protection from predators.
Just days after the mangrove initiative, Muthoni plans to attempt another bold environmental feat. On June 6, she aims to mobilize nationwide efforts to plant one billion trees in 24 hours, a move aligned with Kenya’s long-term target of planting 32 billion trees by 2032.
She said the driving force behind her campaigns is to cultivate a culture of environmental responsibility rooted in genuine care rather than obligation.
“I want to bring people together through love, so conserving our planet comes from a place of care, not force or destruction,” she said.
Before gaining international attention for her record-breaking achievements, Muthoni had already built an impressive profile on the global stage. In 2022, she addressed the Major Group for Children and Youth, a United Nations platform that gives young people a voice in international policy discussions. She has also spoken at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
Following her latest Guinness World Record success, Muthoni secured a sponsorship from Mount Kenya University, where she is pursuing a degree in International Relations. She believes the course will strengthen her ability to advocate for environmental causes at a global level.
Beyond her activism, Muthoni’s striking, brightly colored hair forms part of her environmental message. She said she uses non-synthetic materials that promote sustainable living, noting that many synthetic hair products contribute to environmental harm.
Each color carries symbolic meaning. Black reflects African power and resilience, red represents indigenous resistance and courage, blue stands for water protectors and ocean defenders, while green symbolizes reforestation, regeneration, and hope.
“I’ve had the green color since 2022. The others came last year. It’s a style I love, not just a brand,” she said.
Away from environmental advocacy, Muthoni enjoys creating and playing music on her guitar, occasionally performing at small events around Nairobi. After long days spent coordinating projects, she said her favourite way to relax is by enjoying a simple meal of fish and rice.
Muthoni also revealed that she is single by choice, opting to dedicate her time and energy entirely to environmental work.
“I’ve never dated, and I’m not dating. I’m sacrificing that part of my life for clarity and to focus on my dreams,” she said.
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