Kenyans have expressed growing concerns over the viral TikTok dance known as Mapangale, which mimics the cutting motion of a machete (panga) and insinuates violent acts.
The trend, initiated by entertainer MC Zendiambo of Mbogi Naree Entertainment, has ignited heated debates online. Critics have labeled it inappropriate and insensitive, especially in light of rising cases of gender-based violence and femicide in the country.
The dance involves participants symbolically mimicking a knife motion across the neck, a move many have condemned for normalizing violent imagery.
In response to the backlash, Zendiambo defended the dance, dismissing critics in a fiery statement. “Mi mtu asiniambie kitu… kama haikubambi, keep off!” (No one should tell me anything; if it doesn’t interest you, keep off).
Despite Zendiambo’s defiance, calls for a ban on the dance have intensified, particularly as Kenya prepares to observe the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
Ezekiel Mutua, CEO of the Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK) and known for his firm stance on cultural content, joined the calls for action. He described the dance as promoting violence and misogyny, pledging to collaborate with authorities to address the issue.
“This kind of content normalizes violence and is deeply misogynistic,” Mutua stated.
Dr. Mutua’s criticism aligns with his previous efforts to regulate content during his tenure at the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB), where he advocated for strict censorship of films, music, and advertisements.
Social media users also weighed in on the debate. User @Rioba_is_Gerald noted the troubling timing of the dance’s popularity, commenting, “That Mapangale dance, as much as it may look fun, is bad symbolism, especially during this period where homicide cases are being reported almost daily. Those trending videos and the whole dance should be cancelled.”
Another user, @BrianGeorgeKE, highlighted the need for more positive creativity, stating, “Jokes aside! Mapangale dance is indecent and promotes violence. We have good dance styles and can come up with better ones, not this one!”
The controversy continues to spark discussions about cultural expression and responsibility on social media platforms.
