Murang’a Pastor Takes on 80-Hour Tree-Hugging Challenge to Raise Cancer Awareness

NAIROBI, Kenya Jan 5 – A Murang’a-based pastor has embarked on an 80-hour tree-hugging challenge in Murang’a Town in a symbolic campaign aimed at raising awareness about cancer and the growing burden the disease places on Kenyan families.

Pastor Jimmy Irungu began the endurance challenge on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at 9.00 p.m., and is expected to conclude it on Thursday, January 8, at 5.00 a.m. The initiative has drawn the attention of residents and passersby curious about the unusual but determined act.

The pastor is seeking to break the 72-hour record previously set by Truphena Muthoni, who also undertook a tree-hugging challenge to highlight environmental conservation. By extending the duration to 80 hours, Irungu hopes to draw renewed national attention to the disease and the gaps in cancer care.

“I decided to get into this challenge of hugging the tree because of cancer awareness.Cancer as a disease has been depleting resources, with many patients seeking treatment in India. I want to urge the government to declare cancer a national disaster, just as it did with HIV/AIDS at its onset,” Irungu said.

The pastor lamented the state of cancer treatment in the country, arguing that the lack of adequately equipped facilities has forced many Kenyans to seek costly treatment abroad.

“In Kenya, no hospital can be termed as fully effective in cancer treatment, and that is why people travel to India. I want to urge well-wishers and donors to intervene and support this cause.,” he said.