The appeal comes just days after Muthoni completed a remarkable 72-hour tree-hugging challenge, an effort that captured the attention of the public and inspired conversations across the country.
Our newsroom first highlighted her attempt earlier this week, and since then, several public figures have echoed the same message: Muthoni deserves national honour for the sacrifices she made during her protest.
According to leaders from Nandi and Nyeri counties, her action is more than just a record-breaking stunt.
Our newsroom first highlighted her attempt earlier this week, and since then, several public figures have echoed the same message: Muthoni deserves national honour for the sacrifices she made during her protest.
According to leaders from Nandi and Nyeri counties, her action is more than just a record-breaking stunt.
They believe her quiet stand against deforestation is a symbol of patriotism, especially at a time when Kenya is celebrating its independence and reflecting on the heroes who shaped the nation.
One of the strongest voices pushing for her recognition is Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, who questioned why the government had not yet issued an official commendation.
One of the strongest voices pushing for her recognition is Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, who questioned why the government had not yet issued an official commendation.
He urged the State to consider awarding her one of the highest civilian honours during this year’s Jamhuri Day ceremony.
Cherargei argued that national honours should not only be reserved for political or military achievements, but also for young Kenyans demonstrating extraordinary service to the environment.
Cherargei argued that national honours should not only be reserved for political or military achievements, but also for young Kenyans demonstrating extraordinary service to the environment.
He noted that Muthoni’s discipline, endurance and refusal to give up—even as she went without food or sleep—showed a rare level of dedication worthy of a national spotlight.
Muthoni began her tree-hugging marathon on December 8, choosing to keep silent for the entire three days as a form of peaceful protest.
Muthoni began her tree-hugging marathon on December 8, choosing to keep silent for the entire three days as a form of peaceful protest.
Her aim was to raise awareness about the rapid destruction of forests across various regions and to remind Kenyans about the urgent need to protect natural resources.
By the time she completed the challenge, she had also set a new Guinness World Record. She surpassed her previous achievement of 48 hours, earning widespread praise from environmental organisations, local leaders and thousands of supporters online.
The event took place outside the Nyeri Governor’s office, where Governor Mutahi Kahiga personally flagged off the challenge.
By the time she completed the challenge, she had also set a new Guinness World Record. She surpassed her previous achievement of 48 hours, earning widespread praise from environmental organisations, local leaders and thousands of supporters online.
The event took place outside the Nyeri Governor’s office, where Governor Mutahi Kahiga personally flagged off the challenge.
Throughout the 72 hours, residents from the area passed by to cheer her on, bringing messages of encouragement and staying until she completed the final stretch.
Many said they were moved by her bravery and the quiet way she chose to communicate her message.
After finishing the challenge, Muthoni was taken for medical evaluation. Photos shared online showed her resting and recovering, but still smiling, even after the long and exhausting experience.
After finishing the challenge, Muthoni was taken for medical evaluation. Photos shared online showed her resting and recovering, but still smiling, even after the long and exhausting experience.
Supporters praised her for putting her health on the line in order to raise awareness about climate change.
Several national leaders also congratulated her. Among them was Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris, who applauded Muthoni’s strength and bravery.
Several national leaders also congratulated her. Among them was Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris, who applauded Muthoni’s strength and bravery.
Passaris said she admired how the young activist managed to speak loudly for the environment without using a single word.
She described the attempt as an act of “audacity and love for nature.”
As Jamhuri Day approaches, pressure continues to mount on the government to reward Muthoni’s effort with an official honour.
As Jamhuri Day approaches, pressure continues to mount on the government to reward Muthoni’s effort with an official honour.
Many Kenyans believe her resilience, discipline and message deserve recognition on a national platform.
Environmental groups say her actions have already sparked new interest in conservation among the youth.
Environmental groups say her actions have already sparked new interest in conservation among the youth.
They are hopeful that her world record will become a turning point in the national conversation on climate protection.
If granted, the honour would place Muthoni among Kenya’s youngest recognised environmental champions.
If granted, the honour would place Muthoni among Kenya’s youngest recognised environmental champions.
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