Cyan Boujee, the social media influencer and DJ, has apologised after facing criticism for promoting the controversial Alabuga programme, also known as the “Start Programme.”
Cyan Boujee addresses backlash
The initiative claimed to be a Russian internship opportunity but is now under investigation by South African authorities for possible human trafficking links.
According to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), the programme targeted people aged 18 to 22 with promises of jobs, training, and housing in Russia.
However, officials have warned that it may actually be a cover for forced labour.
In her apology, Cyan Boujee said she initially agreed to promote the programme after seeing other influencers involved. She explained that she had not yet received any payment for her work.
“I don’t think anyone with sense would repeat something like this but I want you guys to know it wasn’t for money because I haven’t been paid yet,” she said.
“We are humans and we make mistakes. I think the positive out of this is the girls will be helped.”
She added that she had four more videos planned for platforms like TikTok, Instagram and YouTube but had deleted her posts after the backlash.
What the Alabuga programme promised
The programme was promoted as a way for young women to get training, language classes, and career growth in Russia.
Cyan Boujee herself appeared in videos describing it as a positive opportunity for Africans, Asians, and Latin Americans to study and work abroad.
But reports suggest that many of those recruited were instead placed in drone factories in Russia’s Republic of Tatarstan.
Investigations allege that instead of hospitality or office jobs, young women were used to assemble drones, some of which are linked to Russia’s war in Ukraine.
DIRCO spokesperson Clayson Monyela confirmed that the programme is being investigated for signs of human trafficking. He urged young South Africans to be cautious of job offers shared on social media.
“Please warn young people, girls in particular, not to fall for unverified foreign job offers,” Monyela said.
“Human trafficking syndicates lure people into slave-like conditions. If something looks too good to be true, get a second opinion.”
Former Democratic Alliance MP Phumzile Van Damme also called on media outlets to investigate the scheme, describing it as having “all the markers of a human trafficking operation and modern slavery arrangements.”
The Alabuga factory in Tatarstan, one of Russia’s biggest drone manufacturers, is believed to recruit women from Africa, Asia and Latin America. Reports suggest that more than 90% of those brought in through the programme end up on drone assembly lines under harsh working conditions.
International news outlets, including Bloomberg, have reported that the factory produces around 200 Shahed-style drones per month. These drones are used in Russia’s war in Ukraine, raising further concerns about the exploitation of young women.
South Africa has confirmed that it may summon Russian diplomats for answers, while Interpol has launched similar investigations in Botswana, Argentina, and other countries.
