HILLARY KIBIWOTT SMASHES GUINNESS WORLD RECORD AFTER PLANTING 23,326 TREES IN 24 HOURS

Kenyan environmentalist Hillary Kiplagat Kibiwott, popularly known as Buzeki, has successfully set a new unofficial Guinness World Record for the most trees planted by an individual within 24 hours. The feat, however, came at a cost, as Kibiwott was rushed to hospital immediately following the attempt.

On April 22-23, at Kessup Forest Station, the founder of Green Earth Ambassadors planted an astonishing 23,326 trees in just 24 hours surpassing the previous record of 23,060 trees set by Canada’s Antoine Moses on July 17, 2021. To achieve this, Kibiwott planted at a relentless pace of nearly 16 trees per minute, battling harsh terrain and weather conditions.

Officials from the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) witnessed the entire attempt, which now awaits formal ratification by Guinness World Records. Kenya Forest Service has already confirmed the milestone, stating, “Hillary Kiplagat Kibiwott has officially set a new #GuinnessWorldRecord for the most trees planted by an individual within 24 hours, after successfully planting an impressive 23,326 trees at Kessup Forest Station in Elgeyo-Marakwet County. This remarkable achievement surpasses the previous record of 23,060 trees.”

The Chief Conservator of Forests, Alex Lemarkoko, lauded Kibiwott for his extraordinary milestone, noting that the accomplishment reflects exceptional dedication, resilience, and a commitment to environmental conservation. First Lady Rachel Ruto praised the effort as a powerful step toward Kenya’s ambitious goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.

However, the physical toll was immense. Shortly after crossing the finish line, Kibiwott was rushed to a nearby medical facility. His condition has not yet been publicly released, but well-wishers across Kenya are sending prayers for a swift recovery. “This historic feat marks a significant boost to Kenya’s reforestation efforts and underscores the power of individual action in restoring our landscapes,” the Kenya Forest Service added.