Kenyan environmentalist completes Guinness World Record attempt for most planted trees in 24 hours

Kenyan environmentalist Hillary Kiplagat Kibiwott has successfully completed a Guinness World Record attempt for the most trees planted by an individual in 24 hours.

Kibiwott, who began the challenge on Wednesday at 11 am, planted an impressive 23,326 trees at Kessup Forest Station in Elgeyo-Marakwet County, according to the Kenya Forest Service.

The feat, achieved by the co-founder of the Green Earth Ambassadors Foundation, now awaits official ratification by Guinness World Records. Once confirmed, it will surpass the current record of 23,060 trees, set by Canadian Antoine Moses in 2021.

Chief Conservator of Forests, Alex Lemarkoko, praised Kibiwott’s achievement, describing it as a remarkable display of dedication, resilience, and commitment to environmental conservation.

“This historic feat marks a significant boost to Kenya’s reforestation efforts and underscores the power of individual action in restoring our landscapes,” he said.

The marathon planting exercise covered more than 30 hectares of forest land and was streamed live, drawing widespread attention as a test of endurance and environmental commitment.

The attempt aligns with Kenya’s broader national goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032, aimed at restoring degraded ecosystems and safeguarding key water catchment areas.