The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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A 30-year-old man from Murang’a has embarked on an 80-hour tree-hugging endurance challenge aimed at raising awareness about the rising cancer burden in Kenya and calling for stronger government action.
James Irungu began the campaign at 9pm on Sunday in Murang’a town and plans to remain embracing the tree without interruption until Thursday at 5am.
By Monday afternoon, he had already completed 12 hours of the demanding challenge, drawing steady support from members of the public who gathered to encourage him as the hours passed.
Irungu said the initiative was inspired by the increasing number of cancer cases and the severe financial strain the disease places on Kenyan families.
READ ALSO: BREAKING: Truphena Muthoni Sets 72-Hour Tree-Hugging World Record
He noted that many households have been forced to sell land or take loans to finance treatment, yet continue to lose loved ones to the illness. He also expressed concern that many patients must seek specialised care abroad, particularly in India, which he said is financially out of reach for most Kenyans.
Speaking to the media after launching the challenge, Irungu urged the government to declare cancer a national disaster, similar to the response mounted during the height of the HIV/AIDS crisis. He called for widespread public awareness campaigns and increased emphasis on early screening.
Irungu revealed that several members of his family have died from cancer, a personal experience that has strengthened his determination to speak out. He believes that better public education, early detection, and investment in local treatment facilities could significantly reduce cancer-related deaths.
He added that current government efforts do not match the scale of the problem.
The tree-hugging endurance challenge comes amid growing interest in unconventional awareness campaigns. The current record for the longest tree-hugging marathon stands at 48 hours, held by Truphena Muthoni from Nyeri, while a recent 72-hour attempt is still awaiting ratification by Guinness World Records.
Irungu said his goal is not only to surpass existing records but also to ignite a nationwide conversation on cancer prevention and care.
He expressed hope that the challenge would encourage people to seek screening and prompt leaders to take decisive action, saying the discomfort would be worthwhile if it leads to positive change.
