Ghanaian Journalist Abdul Hakim Awal Sets World Record for Longest Tree Hug

Ghanaian Journalist Abdul Hakim Awal Sets World Record for Longest Tree Hug

A 23-year-old journalist from Kumasi, Ghana, has gone viral after setting a new world record for the longest time hugging a tree.

Also read: “God Engineering” – Bontle Modiselle Celebrates Setting Guinness World Record

Previous Record and Motivation

Abdul Hakim Awal’s “tree-hug-a-thon” took place outside the Kumasi Cultural Centre and lasted an impressive 24 hours and 21 minutes. According to the Guinness World Records, Awal undertook this challenge not only to break the record but also to raise awareness about reforestation and the importance of preserving nature in Ghana.

The previous record of 16 hours was set earlier this year by Ugandan environmental activist Faith Patricia Ariokot. Determined to surpass that, Abdul set out to hug a tree for over 24 hours straight, without any breaks. He pledged to plant a new tree for every minute he hugged the tree, resulting in a remarkable total of 1,461 trees planted.

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No Breaks Allowed During Record Attempt

During his record-breaking attempt, Abdul wasn’t allowed any breaks. He had to remain standing with his arms wrapped around the tree for the entire duration. Now that his record has reached 24 hours—an achievement that categorizes the attempt as a “marathon”—the rules for future challengers have been updated. The new title is “Longest Marathon Hugging a Tree,” and future attempts will allow for breaks, including up to two hours per day to prevent sleep deprivation and other health risks.

Also read: Guinness World Record Pursuit Takes Toll: Nigerian Student Rushed to Hospital After Hand-washing Clothes For 58 Hours

Why Ghanaian Journalist Broke the World Record for Longest Tree Hug

Having seen the devastating effects of desertification in his family’s hometown of Garu, Abdul hopes to use his newfound fame to launch a nationwide tree-planting initiative. He is passionate about nature conservation and aims to inspire others in Ghana to take action.

Also read: Marathon World Record Holder Kelvin Kiptum Dies in a Horrific Car Accident

Social Media Erupts As Ghanaian Journalist Sets World Record for Longest Tree Hug

After Guinness World Records shared Abdul Hakim Awal’s accomplishment on X (formerly Twitter), social media users flooded the post with congratulatory messages and humorous comments. Here are a few reactions:

@Tkhay_:

Man hasn’t even hugged a girl before

@JerryFCB_96:

Congratulations bro, tree hugger. 🔥👍🏽

@Stunna_Brownn:

Nigerians will start hugging transformers soon, just watch😂😂😂😂

Abdul isn’t the only Ghanaian to make headlines for tree-hugging this year. He follows forestry student Abubakar Tahiru, who set a record for the most trees hugged in one hour, totalling 1,123 trees.

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