Murang’a pastor Jimmy Irungu was rushed to hospital on Thursday morning after collapsing just minutes shy of completing his ambitious 80-hour tree-hugging challenge aimed at raising awareness about cancer.
The 30-year-old cleric fainted after enduring 79 hours and 40 minutes of continuously hugging a tree in Murang’a town, falling short of his target by barely 20 minutes. The endurance challenge began on Sunday, January 4, 2026, and steadily attracted growing public attention as hours turned into days.
Irungu was taken to Murang’a County Level Five Hospital, where medical professionals confirmed that his condition was stable. Doctors attributed his collapse to extreme fatigue resulting from prolonged physical strain.
Murang’a County Executive Committee Member for Youth Affairs, Noah Gachucha, said in a phone interview that medical tests showed the pastor’s vital organs were functioning normally and that he was expected to be discharged within a few hours.
Although he did not complete the full 80 hours, Irungu’s effort effectively set a new benchmark, surpassing the previous 72-hour record achieved by environmental activist Truphena Muthoni during a similar tree-hugging campaign.
The event drew large crowds throughout its duration, with residents and visitors gathering at the site to witness the unfolding challenge.
Celebrations erupted when Irungu crossed the 72-hour milestone, with supporters breaking into songs, prayers, and dances in a show of encouragement.
The campaign gained national attention, attracting leaders, social media influencers, and visitors from neighbouring counties. Truphena Muthoni herself visited the site, praising Irungu’s resilience and the powerful message behind his initiative.
Irungu said the challenge was inspired by cancer patients within his church and the wider community, whom he described as victims of a “silent epidemic” that deserves greater public attention.
Governor Irungu Kang’ata later announced that the county government would engage the pastor once he recovers, with plans to strengthen cancer awareness programs across Murang’a County.
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