Cyan Boujee
, the social media
influencer
and DJ, has issued an apology following backlash over promoting
the controversial Alabuga programme
also referred to as the “Start Programme.”
Cyan Boujee addresses backlash
The program was presented as a Russian training position but is currently being probed by South African officials for potential wrongdoing.
human trafficking
links.
As per the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), the initiative focused on individuals between the ages of 18 and 22, offering them employment opportunities, skill development programs, and accommodation in Russia.
Nevertheless, authorities have cautioned that it could potentially serve as a facade for forced labor.
In her statement of regret, Cyan Boujee mentioned that she first decided to endorse the show upon noticing other influencers were participating. She clarified that she hadn’t been paid for her efforts yet.
“I don’t believe anyone with common sense would say something like this, but I want you all to understand that it wasn’t about money since I still haven’t received payment,” she stated.
We are human beings and we do make errors. In my opinion, the good aspect here is that the girls will receive support.
She mentioned that she has four additional videos scheduled for release on platforms such as
TikTok
,
Instagram
and
YouTube
but had removed her postings following the negative reaction.
What the Alabuga program offered
The initiative was marketed as an opportunity for young females to receive education, language instruction, and professional development within Russia.
Cyan Boujee personally featured in videos where she referred to it as an advantageous chance for people from Africa, Asia, and Latin America to pursue education and employment overseas.
However, according to accounts, several individuals who were enlisted ended up working in drone manufacturing facilities within Russia’s Tatarstan Republic.
Reports claim that rather than working in hospitality or administrative roles, young women were forced to build drones, some of which have been connected to Russia’s conflict in Ukraine.
A DIRCO representative named Clayson Monyela stated that the program is under examination for potential indicators of human trafficking. He advised young people from South Africa to remain vigilant about job opportunities posted on social media platforms.
“Kindly alert young individuals, especially females, against being deceived by unauthorized international employment opportunities,” Monyela stated.
Organized human trafficking groups entice individuals into servitude. If an offer seems excessively favorable, seek another perspective.
Ex-DA legislator Phumzile Van Damme further urged news organizations to look into the plan, labeling it as exhibiting “all signs of a human trafficking setup and contemporary slave labor practices.”
A facility in Alabuga, Tatarstan, which is among Russia’s largest producers of drones, is thought to employ women from regions including Africa, Asia, and Latin America. According to reports, over 90% of individuals participating in this initiative find themselves assigned to drone production lines with difficult labor circumstances.
International news outlets, including
Bloomberg
, have stated that the facility manufactures approximately 200 Shahed-type drones each month. These unmanned aerial vehicles are being utilized in Russia’s conflict with Ukraine, intensifying worries regarding the misuse of female youth.
South Africa has indicated it might call upon Russian envoys for explanations, as Interpol has initiated comparable inquiries in Botswana, Argentina, and additional nations.
