Miss Universe 2024 Spotlight on African Representation

Zozibini Tunzi Universe in 2019, remains the most recent African winner. ( Photo: ELIJAH NOUVELAGE )

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Miss Universe is one of the most prestigious beauty pageants globally, often regarded as part of the "Big Four" alongside Miss World, Miss International, and Miss Earth. The 73rd Miss Universe pageant is set to take place on November 16, 2024, at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City, Mexico. The reigning Miss Universe, Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua, will crown her successor at the event.

This year's pageant will feature over 14 African representatives, highlighting the continent's significant presence and growing influence in international beauty contests. Countries such as South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Namibia, Botswana, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo are among the nations making their mark. The increased participation underscores Africa's rich diversity and the global recognition of its cultural beauty.

Zozibini Tunzi of South Africa, who won Miss Universe in 2019, remains the most recent African winner. She made history as the first black woman with natural afro-textured hair to claim the title. Since her landmark victory, no other African contestant has secured the Miss Universe crown, making this year's heightened representation a hopeful sign for future success.

Confirmed African Contestants for Miss Universe 2024

Noura Njikam - Miss Universe Cameroon 2024
At 24, Noura Njikam from Douala is an environmental science enthusiast dedicated to sustainability. Her platform focuses on environmental conservation and education, aiming to make a global impact while representing Cameroon with grace and poise.

Ilda Amani - Miss Universe Democratic Republic of Congo 2024
Ilda Amani Dorcas, based in Kampala, is a versatile entrepreneur, activist, and content creator. Known for her clothing brand, O’MUKAZI collection, and her advocacy for women's empowerment, Ilda brings a blend of fashion, activism, and creativity to the pageant.

Irene Ng'endo Mukii - Miss Universe Kenya 2024
A former Miss Africa 2019, Irene Mukii is a 26-year-old dancer, philanthropist, and software engineer. She aims to make a significant impact as Kenya returns to the competition after a two-year hiatus, with hopes of improving on the country’s best placement of Top 6 in 2016.

Tania René - Miss Universe Mauritius 2024
At 27, Tania René from Quatre-Bornes is a model and project manager with a passion for Japanese culture. As Mauritius’s representative, she seeks to become the first from her country to win the Miss Universe crown.

Prisca Anyolo - Miss Universe Namibia 2024
Prisca Anyolo, a media professional and CEO of Elysian Beauty Parlour, brings her expertise in television, radio, and public relations to the pageant. Her role as a content marketer and her extensive experience make her a strong contender.

Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina - Miss Universe Nigeria 2024
Chidimma, born in Soweto and with dual citizenship, represents Nigeria after competing in Miss South Africa 2024. Her aim is to become Nigeria’s first Miss Universe, showcasing her unique background and beauty.

Fatou Bintou Gueye - Miss Universe Senegal 2024
At 23, Fatou Bintou Gueye from Dakar is known for her focus on education and empowerment for young girls. Her dedication to highlighting Senegal’s culture and heritage is central to her campaign.

Mia le Roux - Miss Universe South Africa 2024
Mia le Roux, 28, from Sasolburg, is the first hearing-impaired Miss South Africa. A model, marketing manager, and part-time student, Mia’s story of overcoming adversity adds a unique dimension to her candidacy.

Sakhile Dube - Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2024
At 25, Sakhile Dube from Harare is a seasoned pageant queen with titles including Miss Earth Zimbabwe 2022 and Miss Tourism Zimbabwe 2020-2021. Her focus on education and environmental advocacy underscores her commitment to making a meaningful impact.

Confirmed Contestants From Africa for Miss Universe 2024

FAQs

Q: When is the 73rd Miss Universe pageant scheduled to take place?
A: The 73rd Miss Universe pageant will be held on November 16, 2024, at Arena CDMX in Mexico City, Mexico.

Q: Who will be crowning the new Miss Universe?
A: Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua, the reigning Miss Universe, will crown her successor.

Q: How many African contestants will participate in Miss Universe 2024?
A: Over 14 African contestants will be competing in the 73rd Miss Universe pageant.

Q: Which African countries are represented at Miss Universe 2024?
A: The African countries represented include Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Mauritius, Namibia, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, among others.

Q: Who was the most recent African winner of Miss Universe?
A: Zozibini Tunzi from South Africa was the most recent African winner, crowned in 2019.