The ministry of Health has issued a formal public advisory cautioning Kenyans against participating in prolonged tree-hugging marathons without first undergoing a comprehensive medical evaluation.

The warning comes as the “tree-hugging challenge” sweeps across the country, inspired by Truphena Muthoni, who gained national fame after completing a 72-hour initiative in December 2025.

While the trend has been adopted for various causes including environmental activism and charity the government is raising the alarm over the physical toll it takes on the body.
Rising Health Incidents

Speaking on Thursday, January 15, Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni characterized the practice as a “strenuous exercise” rather than a passive activity.

She revealed that the Ministry has already documented several cases of participants collapsing and requiring emergency hospitalization.

A Trend with Diverse Motives

What started as a record-breaking attempt has evolved into a popular form of protest and fundraising:

In Limuru: A young man attempted the challenge to raise school fees for his younger brother.

In Meru: A resident used the challenge to protest against regional banditry.

In Bungoma: A young woman was recently rushed to the hospital immediately after finishing a 74-hour marathon.

The Ministry’s Stance

The government clarified that it is not banning the challenge, but rather advocating for “medical fitness first.” PS Muthoni emphasized that advocacy and social media trends should never come at the expense of personal health.

The Ministry is now recommending:

Mandatory Medical Checkups: To identify underlying heart or respiratory issues.

Gradual Training: Treating the challenge like a marathon that requires physical conditioning.

Proper Preparation: Ensuring participants are physically equipped for the endurance required by such long periods of standing and exposure.

“We are not stopping anyone,” the PS reiterated, “but you must first undergo a medical checkup to ensure that you are medically fit.”