In the heart of Isiolo County, a young woman’s extraordinary act of endurance has captured the imagination of communities far and wide, transforming a simple tree into a powerful symbol of resilience and advocacy.
Halima Boru Ukura, a 26-year-old resident of Isiolo town, recently completed a grueling 72-hour tree-hugging challenge to spotlight the pervasive issue of gender-based violence (GBV).
Her peaceful yet profound demonstration, which unfolded outside the Isiolo County Assembly, not only drew crowds of supportive onlookers but also prompted an official commendation from the county government, highlighting a collective push toward safer, more equitable communities.
A Quiet Protest That Roared with Impact
Halima’s challenge began on the evening of January 15, 2026, at precisely 5:00 p.m., as she wrapped her arms around a sturdy tree in a public space, vowing to maintain her embrace for three full days.
This symbolic gesture was far more than an endurance test; it was a deliberate call to action against the silent suffering endured by countless women and girls in Isiolo and beyond.
As Halima explained in interviews during her vigil, her motivation stemmed from the harsh realities faced by women in pastoralist communities, where GBV often goes unreported due to cultural norms, fear, and lack of support systems.
She aimed to amplify the voices of the voiceless, urging greater community involvement in prevention, reporting, and survivor assistance.
As hours turned into days, Halima’s determination inspired a wave of solidarity. Local residents, activists, and passersby gathered to witness her stand, offering words of encouragement and sharing stories of their own.
Supporters like Batula Ali were visibly moved, emphasizing how Halima’s courage represented the struggles of many women who endure abuse in silence. “Discouraging her would only silence more victims,” Batula noted, highlighting the need for open dialogues.
Nuria Waqo echoed this sentiment, calling Halima’s act a beacon for those afraid to speak out, while Bahari Muhamed rallied for practical aid, including security, a tent for shelter, and a public address system to broadcast her message further.
The challenge was not without its trials. At the 70-hour mark, Halima collapsed due to dehydration and exhaustion, requiring immediate medical attention at the Isiolo County Teaching and Referral Hospital.
Yet, her spirit remained unbroken. Remarkably, she persevered to fulfill her 72-hour commitment, earning widespread admiration for her unwavering resolve.
Organizations such as the Ardha Jabesa Foundation praised her efforts, recognizing the profound impact on addressing GBV in Northern Kenya’s pastoralist societies.
This near-miss only amplified the urgency of her cause, reminding everyone of the physical and emotional toll that advocacy can take—but also the transformative power it holds.
County Government’s Steadfast Commitment to Change
Ali Edin, the spokesperson for the County Government of Isiolo, issued a heartfelt statement on Sunday, January 18, 2026, commending Halima for her brave endeavor.
“We commend Ms. Halima for completing her brave 72-hour tree-hugging challenge in Isiolo to speak out against Gender-Based Violence,” the statement read. “It was a quiet but powerful act. Her endurance forced a hard conversation into the open and reminded many survivors that they are seen, heard, and not alone.”
This endorsement underscores the county’s proactive stance under the leadership of Governor Abdi Ibrahim Hassan, popularly known as Guyo.
The government has been at the forefront of combating GBV through multifaceted initiatives that blend policy, education, and community engagement.
Most notably, Isiolo County recently launched its participation in the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, aligning with the 2025 theme of “UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.”
Held in collaboration with partners like the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) and local organizations, the event took place at the Isiolo County Teaching and Referral Hospital, drawing leaders, institutions, and residents to address not only physical abuse but also emerging threats like online harassment, cyberbullying, and digital exploitation.
The campaign emphasized awareness-raising sessions, prevention strategies, and robust support mechanisms for survivors.
Participants were sensitized to various forms of GBV, including those exacerbated by digital platforms, which disproportionately affect women and girls in rural areas.
Governor Guyo’s administration has extended these efforts beyond the 16-day period, integrating them into year-round programs that challenge harmful cultural norms perpetuating violence.
Building a Safer Future Through Community Empowerment
Looking deeper, Isiolo County’s approach goes far beyond campaigns. Ongoing investments in human capital include comprehensive community trainings that engage women, youth, and elders in recognizing early signs of abuse and responding with empathy and accountability.
These sessions foster intergenerational dialogues, breaking down barriers in pastoralist societies where traditional practices sometimes hinder progress.
By equipping families with tools for intervention, the county is cultivating a culture of responsibility and care, ensuring that acts like Halima’s are not isolated cries but part of a symphony of change.
In the broader Kenyan context, GBV remains a critical challenge, with statistics revealing high incidences in arid and semi-arid regions like Isiolo, where economic hardships and nomadic lifestyles can compound vulnerabilities.
Halima’s challenge, inspired by a national tree-hugging movement originally tied to environmental causes, ingeniously repurposed the act to focus on social justice, blending symbolism with urgent advocacy.
Her story has resonated across social media, with hashtags like #EndGBV, #IsioloCounty, and #BreakTheSilence gaining traction, encouraging others to share experiences and demand action.
A Beacon of Hope and Collective Resolve
Halima Boru Ukura’s 72-hour embrace has done more than hug a tree—it has embraced an entire community in hope and healing.
Her courage, coupled with the County Government of Isiolo’s dedicated efforts, exemplifies a shared commitment to eradicating gender-based violence and restoring dignity to every individual.
As conversations continue to flourish and support systems strengthen, Isiolo stands as a shining example of how individual bravery and institutional action can converge to create lasting positive change.
In a world often overshadowed by challenges, stories like Halima’s remind us that even the quietest acts can echo loudly, inspiring a brighter, more compassionate future for all.
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