Rigathi Gachagua Applauds Daughter Truphena’s 72-Hour Tree-Hugging Challenge to Promote Conservation and Mental Health
The former deputy president highlighted the visionary thinking behind his daughter’s action by acknowledging that she could connect ecological health to emotional well-being.
He emphasized that the world must recognize the urgency of protecting the environment, applauding Truphena for reminding people of their shared duty to safeguard the planet. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua took to social media to praise his daughter, Truphena Muthoni, for her bold and unconventional approach that has driven awareness of environmental conservation and mental health through the 72-hour tree-hugging challenge, which has gone viral throughout the country, with the dual aim of advocating for climate action and open conversations on mental well-being.
In a moving message to show his support, Gachagua celebrated the commitment of his daughter by saying that her mission goes way beyond an attempt at a Guinness World Record. He said her efforts reflect deep responsibility toward nature and society.
“I strongly encourage you in your conservation resolve to not only break your record in the Guinness World Records of hugging a tree but also the awareness creation on environmental conservation and mental health challenges attached,” Gachagua said. He emphasized that the world must recognize the urgency of protecting the environment, applauding Truphena for reminding people of their shared duty to safeguard the planet.
Gachagua further characterized her challenge as a timely call for a renewed mindset of the world: “Your 72-hour Challenge is a great reminder that the world needs to take time and take care of our common home.” He commended her courage and creativity in driving a conversation that many often overlook.
The former deputy president highlighted the visionary thinking behind his daughter’s action by acknowledging that she could connect ecological health to emotional well-being. “Your futuristic thoughts must prick the mind of the world to reset thoughts on conservation and mental health challenges. I am with you every step of the way,” he added, assuring his unwavering support as a parent and leader.
Truphena’s move has triggered an intense debate on the link between nature and mental health, with environmentalists, youth groups, and wellness organizations congratulating her for fostering a more holistic approach in the way people think about health and sustainability. However, it is among the youths that her campaign has really hit home, with many looking at her challenge as a sign of resilience and a call back to nature.
Observers say Truphena is part of a crop of new activists employing creative, emotionally engaged approaches to raise visibility on the climate crisis. Her pledge has inspired communities around Kenya to consider the nature-human relationship, engage in conservation efforts, and speak candidly about struggles with mental health. As she proceeds with her 72-hour tree-hugging work, Truphena Muthoni epitomizes how individual action, when impassioned and actuated by a purpose, can surely result in changing wider society.
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