Murang’a pastor collapses near 80-hour tree-hugging record

By Newsflash Reporter

MURANG’A, KENYA, January 8, 2025 — A Murang’a pastor’s bid to set a new world tree-hugging endurance record ended in dramatic fashion after he collapsed Thursday morning, just minutes shy of completing his target.

Pastor James Irungu, 30, had withstood nearly 80 hours continuously embracing a tree when he suddenly fell ill at the venue in Murang’a town.

He had clocked 79 hours and 40 minutes when organisers, assisted by members of the public, swiftly intervened and arranged for his transfer to hospital. Medical officials later confirmed that Irungu was in stable condition and receiving treatment at Murang’a County Level Five Hospital.

Speaking in a telephone interview, Murang’a County CEC for Youth Affairs Noah Gachucha said doctors had found the pastor’s vital organs functioning normally and indicated he would be discharged within hours.

Record attempt cut short

Irungu’s daring attempt drew national attention, with Kenyans closely tracking his progress through live updates on social media platforms. As the hours stretched into days, large crowds thronged the site to cheer him on, turning the challenge into a community event charged with anticipation and emotion.

Pastor James Irungu in record-breaking tree hugging race. Photo/Handout

The atmosphere reached a high point when Irungu surpassed the previous 72-hour mark associated with tree-planting ambassador Truphena Muthoni of neighbouring Nyeri County. Supporters burst into celebratory songs and dances as word spread that a new milestone had been crossed, even though the pastor was ultimately unable to complete the full 80 hours he had set out to achieve.

Cause beyond the challenge

Muthoni, who previously completed a 48-hour tree-hugging marathon and whose 72-hour attempt is still under verification by Guinness World Records, paid a visit to encourage Irungu during the final stretch. She was joined by local leaders, social media influencers and entertainers, who helped keep morale high and transformed the venue into a lively hub of advocacy.

“Jimmy has achieved because this is something that has never been done, not only in Muranga County but also in the whole world,” the CEC marveled.

He added that the Murang’a County Government was happy to have a hero in the name of Pastor Jimmy.

Governor Irungu Kang’ata later said the county would engage the pastor after his recovery to explore ways of strengthening cancer awareness initiatives.