Truphena Muthoni names date when she will hug 1,172 trees in one hour in Brazil
By Steve Ireri, May 7, 2026Environmental enthusiast Truphena Muthoni has announced a new date for her ambitious attempt to hug 1,172 trees within one hour at Brazil’s Jardim Botanico Garden.
In a statement shared on TikTok on Thursday, May 7, 2026, Muthoni revealed that the event is scheduled to take place on May 8, 2026, describing it as a symbolic environmental initiative aimed at promoting conservation, unity, and the deep connection between humanity and nature.
According to her, the journey to Brazil was also inspired by a desire to connect with indigenous communities and honour what she described as the historic bond between Afro-Indigenous Brazilians and the African diaspora.
“I came to Brazil to connect with indigenous communities and honour the historic bond between the Afro-Indigenous Brazilians and the African diaspora, a sacred story of love, ancestry, and resilience,” she said.
She explained that the challenge would involve briefly hugging 1,172 trees within sixty minutes, with each embrace lasting only a few seconds while carrying a larger message about environmental protection and humanity’s relationship with forests.
“This week, on May 8, 2026, at Jardim Botanico Garden, I am attempting something very powerful, 1,172 trees in only one hour,” she added.
Muthoni further stated that the initiative goes beyond attempting a record, noting that it is intended to remind people about the importance of caring for nature and protecting ecosystems that sustain life.
“This will be a remembrance of our connection to the earth, to forests, and to each other. 1,172 trees in one hour, each hug lasting just a few seconds, yet carrying a message that goes far beyond time,” she shared.
She added that trees represent life, breath, and survival, emphasising that every effort made toward conservation contributes to safeguarding the planet for future generations.
The environmental advocate also described the activity as a remembrance of humanity’s connection to the earth and to one another, saying the message behind the campaign is rooted in love, resilience, ancestry, and collective responsibility toward the environment.
“Because every tree holds life, every branch gives us breath, and every moment we choose to care is a step toward protecting the world we all depend on. This isn’t just about a record, it’s about reminding ourselves that nature gives us everything, and it’s time we give something back,” she added.