NAIROBI, Kenya — Mount Kenya University (MKU) has announced the award of a comprehensive academic scholarship to celebrated environmentalist Truphena Muthoni.
This gesture serves as a formal recognition of her profound dedication to ecological conservation and mental health advocacy, expressed through symbolic and high-endurance activism.
The scholarship was officially conferred by Prof. Peter Wanderi, Principal of Corporate Services, on behalf of Vice-Chancellor Professor Deogratius Jaganyi.
In his remarks, Professor Wanderi noted that the award reflects Muthoni’s significant community impact and her unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, values that align with the university’s mission to foster sustainable development through education.
Beginning in January 2026, Muthoni will commence her studies at MKU, transitioning from a grassroots activist to a formally trained professional in the environmental sector.
Breaking records for the planet
Muthoni’s academic support comes on the heels of her latest Guinness World Record-breaking performance.
On December 11, 2025, she completed the longest continuous tree hug in history, maintaining physical contact with an indigenous tree for 72 hours at the Nyeri Governor’s Office grounds.
This feat, achieved despite adverse weather conditions and physical exhaustion, surpassed her previous 48-hour record set at Michuki Memorial Park in Nairobi.
Her activism draws a deliberate parallel between environmental preservation and human emotional well-being, sparking a global dialogue on the intrinsic link between nature and mental health.
State recognition and national appointment
The record-breaking achievement earned Muthoni high-level state recognition.
On December 15, 2025, President William Ruto hosted her at State House, Nairobi, where he presented her with the Head of State Commendation (HSC).
During the event, the President appointed Muthoni as an Ambassador for the National 15 Billion Tree Planting Campaign, a flagship policy aimed at restoring Kenya’s forest cover by 2032.
In this capacity, she will lead grassroots mobilization efforts, focusing on youth engagement and community-led reforestation.
The Presidential recognition package includes:
- Professional exposure: Support from the Ministry of Environment to facilitate international travel for conservation leadership training.
- Leisure and wellness: A fully sponsored holiday for Muthoni and her team, coordinated by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB).
A new chapter in advocacy
The scholarship from MKU highlights a growing institutional trend of validating unconventional advocacy as a legitimate pathway to leadership.
By braving cold nights and heavy rainfall to amplify the message of forest conservation, Muthoni has successfully captured the public imagination.
As she prepares for her university entry in 2026, Muthoni’s journey represents a powerful intersection of youth-led activism, national policy, and academic support, all working toward a more climate-resilient future for Kenya.
