Several South African influencers have come forward to share their side of the story amid growing social media outrage over a Russian work program that some have linked to human trafficking.

The controversy, dubbed the “Alabuga saga”, has dominated online conversations this week, with many calling for accountability.

On a special edition of MacG’s podcast, influencers Zille, Seemah, and Monaka described how they were approached earlier this year by agencies to promote a Russian work program targeting women aged 18 to 22 for hospitality and other roles.

They traveled to Russia, visited the program’s facilities, and reported that the participants they met were happy and properly compensated.

Zille, one of the main influencers, expressed regret over not researching the program more thoroughly before promoting it.

“There’s no money in the world worth me being involved in such things,” he said.

He also offered to donate any earnings from the campaign to NGOs working against human trafficking.

Seemah and Monaka described their experiences in Russia as safe and professional, saying that the women they interacted with were treated well, living in proper accommodations and learning skills like the Russian language. They emphasised that they did not witness any signs of trafficking.

Siya Sabamu from SW Marketing, the agency that coordinated the campaign, explained that extensive research and due diligence were conducted before the influencers were involved. 

The agency verified registration certificates, contacted previous participants, and reviewed the program’s infrastructure.

Despite these assurances, social media backlash has been severe. Influencers say the situation has caused reputational damage and emotional stress.

“No matter what we do, they will always associate us like that,” Munaka said, referring to the accusations of promoting human trafficking.

IOL News

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