Environmental activist and record holder Truphena Muthoni used her meeting with President William Ruto at State House to spotlight the deep connection between nature, healing and mental health.
Photos of an elated Muthoni circulated widely on social media throughout the day, drawing admiration, even from critics who had previously dismissed her tree-hugging attempt.
In videos seen by TNX Africa, Muthoni can be heard telling the President that her tree-hugging challenge was not simply about breaking records, but about encouraging Kenyans to reconnect with nature as a pathway to healing, particularly for those struggling with mental health challenges.
She explained that environmental degradation has a direct impact on human wellbeing, noting that people affected by climate-related disasters, including floods, displacement and even road accidents, often suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
According to Muthoni, nature can play a critical role in emotional recovery.
“I am trying to tell people to go back to nature for healing, especially those facing mental health crises connected to environmental degradation,” she told the President.
She added that fostering a genuine emotional bond with the environment is essential to achieving long-term conservation goals, arguing that people are more likely to protect what they truly value. She emphasised that conservation efforts should go beyond tree-planting targets to focus on shaping mindsets and values.
“Before we plant a million trees, we must nurture a million hearts that care,” she said.
Her remarks were well received during the meeting, aligning with the government’s broader environmental agenda and reinforcing the need to integrate mental health, community wellbeing and environmental conservation into national climate action efforts.
Following the high-profile meeting, Muthoni was awarded a Head of State Commendation (HSC), alongside fully funded trips from several government agencies.
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) offered Muthoni and her team a fully sponsored holiday experience, while the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry committed to facilitating her long-held dream of visiting Brazil to gain exposure to global conservation initiatives.
Muthoni gained international attention after completing a daring 72-hour tree-hugging attempt, surpassing her previous 48-hour record.
A 22-year-old music and culture student, she uses endurance challenges as a form of silent protest and advocacy.
Her primary mission, she has previously said, is to raise awareness about environmental conservation, deforestation, and the mental and emotional benefits of reconnecting with nature.