Kenyan President William Ruto has appointed 22-year-old climate activist Truphena Muthoni as an ambassador for the country’s ambitious 15 billion tree-planting campaign.

Muthoni earned the appointment after setting a Guinness World Record by hugging a tree continuously for 72 hours, a feat aimed at raising awareness about deforestation and the impacts of climate change.

Speaking to local media, the young activist explained the symbolism behind the outfit she wore during the challenge.

She said the black colour represented African power and resilience, green symbolised reforestation, red stood for indigenous resistance, while blue highlighted the importance of water and ocean protection.

The appointment underscores Kenya’s growing engagement with youth-led climate action as the country pursues its large-scale environmental conservation goals.