Truphena, who captured national attention earlier this month after hugging a tree continuously for three days in Nyeri County, said reports suggesting that Guinness World Records had dismissed her achievement were false and misleading.
Taking to her social media platforms, the environmentalist explained that her record is still under review and has not yet been ratified, a process she says takes time and involves detailed verification.
“I would like to clarify that my world record attempt has not been rejected. I am currently uploading all the required evidence to Guinness World Records, and the official outcome will be communicated once the process is complete,” she said.
Truphena began her latest tree-hugging marathon on December 8, 2025, in the presence of local leaders, including Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga. She successfully completed 72 hours without sitting, eating, or leaving the tree, drawing admiration from supporters across the country.
The feat was aimed at raising awareness about environmental conservation, climate change, and the importance of protecting forests, causes that Truphena has consistently championed.
While the 72-hour attempt awaits official recognition, Truphena currently holds a verified Guinness World Record of 48 hours, which she set in February this year. She noted that until the new attempt is approved, the earlier record remains the officially recognised one.
According to Truphena, she is in active communication with Guinness World Records officials and is submitting all required documentation to support her claim. These include video recordings, witness statements, and other materials needed to confirm the legitimacy of the attempt.
She also shared screenshots of her correspondence with the London-based organisation, assuring supporters that she would provide accurate updates once the verification process is complete.
Guinness World Records requires participants to notify the organisation in advance before attempting any record. After completing the attempt, participants must submit detailed evidence, including continuous video footage, independent witness reports, photographs, and in some cases, professional logs.
Once submitted, the evidence is reviewed by a records management team, a process that can take up to three months. Applicants may choose to fast-track the review by paying an additional fee, which can cost up to Ksh100,000.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the ratification, Truphena’s environmental campaign has already earned her national recognition.
President William Ruto recently acknowledged her efforts, announcing that she would be appointed as an ambassador for the government’s 15-billion-tree planting initiative. The campaign is part of Kenya’s broader push to combat climate change and restore degraded landscapes.
In addition to the ambassadorial role, the President said that the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) had jointly extended a fully sponsored holiday package to Truphena and her team.
The gesture was meant to recognise her contribution to environmental conservation and its role in promoting sustainable tourism in the country.
Speaking previously, Truphena said her motivation goes beyond setting records, noting that she hopes her actions inspire Kenyans to take climate action seriously and play an active role in protecting nature.
As she awaits official confirmation from Guinness World Records, Truphena has urged the public to rely on verified information and avoid spreading unconfirmed claims.
“I appreciate the support I have received from Kenyans. I ask for patience as the verification process continues,” she said.
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