Munaka Muthambi Speaks Out About Her Involvement in Controversial Russia Program

Reality TV star and social media influencer Munaka Muthambi has spoken out for the first time about her involvement in the controversial Alabuga Start Programme — a Russian-based initiative that has come under heavy criticism. The programme, which has been accused of suspicious recruitment tactics, targets unemployed South African women between the ages of 18 and 22.

Munaka, who recently travelled to Russia as part of the campaign, took to Instagram on Wednesday to share her side of the story and apologize for her role. In her post, she explained that she had trusted the opportunity because it came from a well-known South African agency that she had faith in. According to her, friends of hers had previously worked with this agency on other campaigns, which made her feel secure in taking part.

“Hey guys. I’d like to address the Russia Alabuga program,” she wrote in the caption of her post. “The first thing I want to say is travel and anything that has to do with education, women, or empowering people are passions of mine. So when the opportunity came to go to Russia for this program I was very open to it. I didn’t even get paid a fraction of what I charge. I’m very selective with brands so trust me, it was never about the money for me.”

She emphasized that she could not speak for the other influencers who were involved, but stressed that her decision came after what she believed was careful consideration. The agency had shared what she described as a “sheet of sources” dismissing the online reports about the programme as fake news.

“When we discussed our concerns, they sent a sheet of sources stating most of the news online is fake news and the program is legit. I’ve attached the link in my bio for those of you who want to see it.”

But public concerns about the Alabuga programme escalated when it was linked to possible human trafficking, a claim that Munaka says took her by surprise.

“Idk how human trafficking entered the chat. I really hope none of that is happening and currently I’m waiting for the government/embassy to release a statement on this.”

She concluded her message with a heartfelt apology to anyone hurt by her actions.

“I am sorry for my role in this. I have no words. Even after what I thought was due diligence (by working with a good agency, receiving credible reviews and even going to the place before I post about it), this still happened. So genuine apologies to those I hurt. I also apologize to the brands I’m currently working with and have been impacted by my association. You as well, the audience that supports the work I share, don’t deserve this. Thank you for taking the time to read.”

As the controversy unfolds, Munaka says she is awaiting official statements from the government or the embassy to help clarify the truth behind the programme.