Kenyan Man Rushed to Hospital After Planting 24,000 Trees in 24 Hours for Guinness World Record

Kenyan environmentalist Hillary Kibiwott has completed a 24-hour marathon tree-planting challenge aimed at setting a new Guinness World Record.

The ambitious attempt saw him target 24,000 trees within a single day, pushing both physical endurance and environmental commitment to the limit. The feat drew attention from supporters and environmental advocates who followed the challenge closely as it unfolded.

The challenge began at 11am on Wednesday at Kaptagat Forest in Kameza, within the Kessup Forest Block in Elgeyo Marakwet County.

The exercise covered more than 30 hectares and unfolded under close watch as a test of human endurance and environmental commitment.

Kenya Forest Service officials remained on site and worked with partners and local supporters to guide the process.

Rushed to Hospital After Exhaustion

However, the intense activity took a toll on his body. Immediately after completing the effort, Kibiwott was rushed to the hospital for medical attention due to exhaustion after the 24-hour task.

Doctors continue to monitor his condition, which remains stable as he recovers from the demanding challenge.

Also Read: Another Kenyan Starts 50-Hour Tree Hugging Challenge

Verification Process Begins

Meanwhile, officials overseeing the attempt have started verifying the final count of trees planted. They are following strict Guinness World Record guidelines to confirm the results.

“I have seen, in Hillary Kiplagat, popularly known as Buzeki, resilience, a rare strength of spirit,” Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko praised his effort.

He added that the initiative is more than a Guinness World Records attempt.

Also Read: KeNHA Explains How Roadside Trees Are Replaced After Cutting

Record Benchmark and Climate Goal

At the same time, the verification process will determine whether Kibiwott met the 24,000-tree target within the set timeframe.

The current record stands at 23,060 trees planted in 24 hours, set in 2021 by a Canadian, Antoine Moses, which he aimed to surpass.

In addition, the attempt aligns with Kenya’s goal of growing 15 billion trees by 2032, a plan that targets restoration of degraded landscapes and protection of water catchment areas.

Momentum for Youth-Led Climate Action

Furthermore, the challenge has sparked conversations around youth-led climate action. Leaders and stakeholders view the initiative as a strong example of what community-driven efforts can achieve.

As Kenya pushes forward with reforestation efforts, Kibiwott’s attempt signals growing momentum and inspires more young people to take part in environmental conservation.

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Hillary Kibiwott plants a tree with Kenya Forest Service officers at Kaptagat Forest in Kameza, Kessup Forest Block, Elgeyo Marakwet County, on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, during his 24-hour challenge, aiming to plant 24,000 trees in one day to set a Guinness World Record and promote environmental conservation. PHOTO/ Kenya Wildlife Service X