Pastor Jimmy Irungu collapsed during the 79th hour of his 80-hour tree-hugging challenge and was rushed to Murang’a Level 5 Hospital for medical attention. The incident occurred just one hour before the challenge was set to end on Thursday, January 8, at 5:27 am. Supporters who had followed the challenge closely expressed concern as medical teams intervened to stabilize him.
The challenge began on Sunday, January 4, 2026, and quickly drew national attention due to its unusual format and its focus on cancer awareness. Irungu, who is also a gospel singer, said the initiative was driven by the growing number of cancer cases affecting Kenyan families and communities. His action was meant to spark conversation, reflection, and responsibility around public health and environmental safety.
Why did Jimmy Irungu start the 80-hour tree-hugging challenge?
In an interview before the challenge began, Irungu explained his motivation clearly and emotionally. “Today, I am going to be embarking on an 80-hour challenge to raise awareness about cancer. Cancer has become a tragedy. I know that even the viewers know of someone, even in their family, who might have been affected by cancer,” he said.
He called on both government institutions and private sector players to treat cancer as a national emergency. According to Irungu, the fight against cancer requires immediate action, stronger medical systems, and consistent public education. He stressed that awareness alone is not enough without practical changes in policy and health support.
Irungu also linked environmental safety to cancer prevention. He warned against chemically treated animal feeds and contaminated food products, saying these risks often go unnoticed until they affect human health. During an interview with Kikuyu YouTuber Paxson Chege Ngunya, he addressed criticism surrounding the challenge and clarified its symbolism.
“It is my appeal to the government and relevant private institutions to rise and fight against this illness. The reason why I have decided to hug a tree, which many people have been criticising me for saying it was Truphena’s idea and which is actually true, is this,” he said.
“This is to show you that if we can be mindful and take care of what surrounds us, then we can fight cancer. For example, when you feed your cow feed that has chemicals, and then the butcher sells that meat to you later, these chemicals can cause cancer. If we take care of what is around us, then that can be the start of fighting cancer. Let us fight this cancer together.”
Was the challenge about fame or public health?
Speaking to the media on Monday, January 5, 2026, Irungu dismissed claims that he was seeking attention or record recognition. He said the challenge was personal and rooted in concern for ordinary Kenyans facing the disease.
“Niliamua ku hugg mti kwa sababu ya ugonjwa wa cancer. Ugonjwa wa cancer umekuwa ukisumbua watu sana na kumaliza watu wengi,” he said.
He added that cancer has quietly become one of the deadliest illnesses in the country, forcing families to drain their savings while seeking treatment abroad. “Watu wamekua wakienda India kupata matibabu. Nikaamua nikuje hapa kwa mti kwa masaa eighty ili tuonyeshe ya kwamba huu ugonjwa ni hatari,” he added.
Although Irungu did not complete the final hour, his message reached a wide audience and reignited discussion on cancer prevention, environmental responsibility, and the urgent need for better healthcare support in Kenya.
By Modester Nasimiyu