Zendiambo Defends Viral ‘Mapangale’ Dance Amid Backlash Over Violent Symbolism
Kenyan artist Zendiambo, the creator behind the trending Mapangale dance sound, has stood firm in defending his work amidst mounting criticism. The dance, which mimics chopping motions with a machete, has sparked a national debate, with critics linking its symbolism to rising femicide cases and gender-based violence in Kenya.
The Rise of Mapangale The Mapangale dance challenge has become a cultural sensation, dominating TikTok and captivating dance enthusiasts across Kenya. Named after the Swahili word panga (machete), the dance features participants facing each other and mimicking rhythmic chopping motions with their arms. Accompanied by Zendiambo’s infectious chant, “Mapangale… Mapangale,” the trend quickly gained traction, with some performers even using real machetes in their routines and showcasing the challenge in public spaces like supermarkets.
Mixed Reactions to the Trend While many have embraced the dance for its creativity and simplicity, others have expressed concern over its violent undertones. Critics argue that the choreography trivializes serious societal issues, particularly at a time when Kenya is grappling with increasing cases of femicide and gender-based violence.
Ezekiel Mutua, CEO of the Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK), has been among the most vocal opponents of the trend. “I am inundated with complaints about the ‘Mapangale dance’ challenge on TikTok,” Mutua stated. “This kind of content normalizes violence and is misogynistic.” He hinted at the possibility of regulatory action to curb the challenge’s spread.
Some TikTok influencers who had participated in the challenge have since apologized. Popular creator Mjaka Mfine expressed regret, clarifying that the intent was purely entertainment and not to glorify violence.
Zendiambo’s Bold Defense Amid the controversy, Zendiambo has adopted a defiant stance. In a fiery social media post, he dismissed the backlash as unwarranted negativity. Drawing comparisons to other dance trends, he wrote, “Venye dance challenge ya moonwalk ilitolewa, did people go to the moon? Mi mtu asiniambie kitu. No one has forced the dance on no one. Kama haikubambi, keep off.” (When the moonwalk challenge was created, did anyone go to the moon? No one should tell me anything. If you don’t like it, stay away.)
He further challenged critics to focus their energy on creating their own dance trends if they found Mapangale offensive, concluding with the slang phrase, “Stanama Kawangechesa!”—loosely translating to “Stay calm.”
A Broader Debate The Mapangale controversy highlights a larger conversation about the responsibility of creators and the influence of art on society. While some argue that art should entertain without restrictions, others believe creators must consider the ethical implications of their work.
As the dance continues to trend online, calls for regulation grow louder, raising questions about whether the challenge will naturally lose popularity or face an official ban. For now, Zendiambo’s creation remains at the center of Kenya’s cultural discourse, sparking discussions about the balance between creativity and social responsibility.
