Kenyan environmentalist Hillary Kiplagat Kibiwott is currently in the middle of a historic attempt to enter the Guinness World Records books by planting 24,000 trees within 24 hours.
The challenge officially began on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Kessup Forest and is scheduled to conclude on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at the same time.
Kibiwott’s mission is as ambitious as it is demanding. He aims to surpass the current record of 23,060 trees set in 2021 by Antoine Moses.
To achieve this, the Kenyan environmentalist must maintain an extraordinary pace throughout the 24-hour period.
He is required to plant approximately 1,000 trees every hour, translating to one tree every 3.6 seconds. rest.
Kibiwott Backed by Kenya Forest Service
The record attempt is being closely monitored and guided by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) as local oversight is led by Regional Forest Conservator John Rono and County Forest Conservator Richard Guya, ensuring adherence to both environmental standards and Guinness World Records guidelines.
Kibiwott, who co-founded the Green Earth Ambassadors Foundation, received official approval for the attempt earlier this year, marking months of preparation leading up to the marathon.
While breaking a world record remains the immediate goal, Kibiwott has emphasized that the initiative is about far more than numbers.
He describes the effort as a bold commitment to climate action, aligning with Kenya’s ambitious national goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.
Kenya’s Growing Influence in Environmental Activism
Kibiwott’s attempt comes amid a rising wave of environmental activism in Kenya.
Earlier in 2026, Truphena Muthoni earned global recognition after her 72-hour tree-hugging marathon was officially ratified by Guinness World Records.
Her achievement further strengthened grassroots participation in conservation efforts and led to her appointment as an ambassador for the national tree-planting campaign.
With the 24-hour window still active, all eyes remain on Kessup Forest as Kibiwott pushes his physical and mental limits in pursuit of history.
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