PS Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni. [Edward Kiplimo, Standard]Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has warned Kenyans against participating in prolonged tree-hugging challenges after several participants suffered serious health complications. “People have started tree-hugging, a strenuous exercise. Pastor James Irungu of Murang’a collapsed at 79 hours during an 80-hour tree-hugging exercise aimed at raising cancer awareness. Muthoni warned the exercises pose severe risks, including organ failure, dehydration, and other life-threatening complications.

Source: Standard Digital January 16, 2026 15:32 UTC