Reality TV star and social media influencer, Munaka Muthambi recently found herself in hot water after promoting the Russian Alabuga programme, which is alleged to be a scam to lure young girls for human trafficking.
The Love Never Lies season 1 winner took to her Instagram page to share how she was involved with the programme.
According to TshisaLIVE, Munaka and Cyan Boujee travelled to Russia for the programme that targeted females aged 18- 22. Munaka said she was approached by a reputable agency based in South Africa that she trusted due to her friends having worked with it before on other campaigns.
“Travel and anything that has to do with education, women or empowering people are my passions. So when the opportunity came to go to Russia for this programme I was open to it. I didn’t get paid a fraction of what I charge. I’m selective with brands, so trust me. It was never about the money for me.
“When we discussed our concerns they sent a sheet of sources stating most of the news online is fake and the programme is legit. I’ve attached the link in my bio for those of you who want to see it. I don’t know how human trafficking entered the chat. I hope none of that is happening and I’m waiting for the government/embassy to release a statement on this.
“I am sorry for my role in this. I have no words. Even after what I thought was due diligence (my working with a good agency, receiving credible reviews and going to the place before I post about it) this still happened. Genuine apologies to those I hurt. I also apologise to the brands I’m working with and have been affected by my association. You, as well the audience that supports the work I share, don’t deserve this.”
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, has confirmed that government has compiled a list of local social media influencers implicated in the notorious Russian Alabunga jobs saga. The list has been handed over to the police for criminal investigation.
The safety, dignity,& future of young SA women are of paramount importance,& we can not allow desperation borne of high unemployment to be weaponised against youth.This harsh reality must never become an avenue for exploitation,abuse,or human trafficking disguised as job offers. pic.twitter.com/rEDVrUFB0f
— Hon Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, MP 🇿🇦🏳️🌈 🇵🇸 (@msletsike) August 25, 2025
Also see: ‘We make mistakes’ – Cyan Boujee issues an apology for promoting Russian jobs
