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A new chapter has emerged in Kenya’s growing wave of endurance-based environmental activism after a 14-year-old boy launched a 50-hour tree-hugging challenge in Nairobi’s central business district in a bid to raise medical funds for his ailing brother.
Stephen Gachanja, a minor from Kenya, began the challenge at Jevanjee Gardens, drawing attention from passersby and online audiences intrigued by the rising phenomenon.
The teenager, calmly holding onto a tree, explained the motivation behind his effort when approached by members of the public.
Asked to identify himself, he said, “My name is Steven,” before confirming that he had already spent several hours clinging to the tree.
When asked whether he was hugging more than one tree, he responded simply, “Yes,” clarifying his physical commitment to the act.
Stephen stated that he was targeting a total of 50 consecutive hours.
By the time of the interview, he had already made significant progress.
“16 hours,” he said when asked how long he had been hugging the tree, adding that his parents were present and supportive.
“Yes,” he confirmed when asked whether they had been helping him through the challenge.
Despite his young age, Stephen acknowledged the physical difficulty of the task.
“Uh, tough but, uh, still good,” he said, describing the experience so far while insisting he remained determined to continue.
Also Read: Millions and Other Benefits Truphena Muthoni Will Receive for Hugging a Tree for 72 Hours
Encouragement From the Public
As the challenge continued, Stephen revealed that members of the public had been stopping to offer encouragement.
Asked whether people were cheering him on, he responded, “Yes,” suggesting growing interest in his effort.
However, when questioned about online attention, he appeared uncertain.
“I don’t know,” he said when asked if he had gone viral, later acknowledging that the recording being taken might help spread his message.
Observers also expressed concern about his well-being.
Asked whether people were bringing him water, Stephen said, “No water,” before confirming he was not eating at the time.
He clarified, however, that he planned to eat later.
“I am. The next day, though, after 30 hours or so,” he explained, as the interviewer, also named Steven, wished him luck.
Also Read: Pastor James Irungu Collapses After Hugging a Tree for 79 Hours
A Movement Inspired by Recent Records
Stephen’s challenge comes against the backdrop of high-profile tree-hugging marathons in Kenya.
In December 2025, environmental activist Truphena Muthoni broke the 72-hour tree-hugging world record in Nyeri.
Her act, which involved no food, water, or breaks, was widely praised as a symbol of environmental resistance and resilience.
Muthoni’s protest-style marathon drew national leaders, scholars, and conservationists, framing tree hugging as both activism and endurance art.
Her feat inspired others, including Pastor James Irungu, who collapsed in the wee hours of January 8, 2026, after surpassing the 72-hour mark during an 80-hour attempt in Murang’a.
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Nyeri County leadership including Governor Mutahi Kahiga have come together to show support to Truphena Muthoni. PHOTO/ File
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