In a bold and innovative move to highlight the dangers of corruption in Kenya, 23-year-old environmental activist Flora Onyango has embarked on a unique 74-hour tree-hugging challenge in Tongaren Constituency, Bungoma County. The challenge, which started on January 10, 2026, aims to raise awareness about the destructive impact of corruption on the country's development and environment.
Flora, a passionate advocate for both environmental conservation and social justice, has long been vocal about the intersection of corruption and environmental degradation. According to her, corruption robs the country of crucial resources that could be directed toward sustainable development, environmental protection, and poverty alleviation. Her latest endeavor, a symbolic tree-hugging challenge, is designed to bring attention to these pressing issues in an unconventional and highly visual way.
“I decided to take on this challenge because I want to show that the problems we face in Kenya—whether they are environmental or social—are often exacerbated by corruption,” Flora explained as she hugged the trunk of a large indigenous tree in Tongaren. “Trees are symbols of life and growth, but corruption is like a disease that stunts our progress and destroys the environment. Through this challenge, I hope to inspire others to take a stand against the practices that hold us back as a nation.”
The tree-hugging challenge is not just a display of Flora's personal commitment; it is also a call to action for the people of Kenya to unite in the fight against corruption. Throughout the 74 hours, Flora will remain in close contact with her supporters through live social media updates, where she will share facts, personal stories, and insights on how corruption affects various sectors such as education, healthcare, and environmental conservation.
Flora's challenge also underscores the urgency of addressing environmental issues linked to corruption, such as illegal logging, land grabbing, and the misallocation of resources meant for conservation efforts. These corrupt practices have contributed to the alarming rate of deforestation and the loss of biodiversity in Kenya, impacting not only the environment but also the livelihoods of local communities.
“Corruption undermines our efforts to protect the environment,” Flora continued. “Illegal logging and land grabbing have been on the rise in our forests and nature reserves. We cannot hope to preserve our natural heritage while corruption continues to dictate who benefits from our national resources.”
The challenge has garnered widespread attention, with local activists, environmentalists, and even politicians expressing their support. In a statement of solidarity, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) highlighted the importance of conservation in the fight against corruption and pledged to work with activists like Flora to enhance transparency in the management of forest resources.
“We commend Flora for her creativity in raising awareness on such an important issue. The challenge is not only about saving trees but about saving the future of our nation from the corrupt practices that undermine our progress,” said a KFS spokesperson.
Flora, who is known for her grassroots activism and work with local communities in Bungoma County, has always been an advocate for sustainable development. Her goal is to spark a nationwide conversation about the deep-rooted issues of corruption that have hindered Kenya’s potential. By using a visually powerful act like tree-hugging, Flora hopes to make the conversation more relatable and urgent.
The challenge is expected to conclude on January 13, 2026, with Flora urging citizens, particularly the youth, to join her in signing a petition that calls for stronger anti-corruption measures and greater accountability in government. She also plans to organize a community clean-up and tree-planting event following the end of her challenge, symbolizing a collective commitment to both environmental and societal rejuvenation.
Flora’s tree-hugging challenge is an inspiring reminder that fighting corruption does not always require grand speeches or complex political strategies. Sometimes, the most impactful actions come from ordinary people with extraordinary passion—people like Flora Onyango, who believe in the power of individual activism to spark broader change.
As the hours pass, Flora remains steadfast in her mission, with her unwavering message resonating across the country: "A corrupt nation is a broken nation, and only by working together can we heal our land and our future."
The tree-hugging challenge continues to capture the hearts and minds of Kenyans, leaving a lasting impression on all who witness it, one hug at a time.
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