Take In the Beauty and Rich Culture of these African Queens' National Costumes at Miss Universe 2024
This year’s 18 African contestants at Miss Universe showcase stunning costumes that celebrate their beauty, heritage, and rich national stories.
Every year, the Miss Universe pageant captivates audiences worldwide. The National Costume show is one of its most anticipated highlights, where contestants wear elaborate designs that celebrate their country’s heritage, history and spirit.
This year’s African lineup reflects each nation’s creativity and diversity — from honoring historical icons to showcasing natural wonders. Unfortunately, Miss South Africa, Mia Le Roux, had to withdraw from the competition ahead of the show due to health concerns. Our thoughts are with her during this time.
As the main event approaches on Saturday, these are the African queens to support as they take the Miss Universe stage. You can also stream the event live via the Miss Universe YouTube page.
Prisca Anyolo (Namibia)
Prisca Anyolo took to the stage in her costume titled, “Desert Mirage” designed by Purrfekt Studio. Inspired by the sweeping beauty of the Namib Desert, the design mirrors the golden hues of the dunes and the brilliance of Namibia’s treasured diamonds. “Made from Odelela fabric,” describes Anyolo in an Instagram post, “it reflects Namibian artistry and versatility.”
Marie-Emmanuelle Diamala (Côte D’Ivoire)
Miss Côte D’Ivoire appeared as an elephant! “My costume features a female elephant in full mutation, merging human elegance and animal majesty,” says Marie-Emmanuelle Diamala, “My costume is made from a traditional ‘TAPA’ cloth drag, made of tree bark, a symbol of authenticity and a deep connection to the nature of the Krou people.”
Snit Habteab (Eritrea)
Representing Eritrea in its Miss Universe debut, Snit Habteab wore a regal costume that captured the essence of Eritrean heritage. Made from 100 percent cotton fabric, the ensemble exudes the elegance of an African queen, with gold embroidery and a flowing cape that signifies royalty.
Dr. Thanolo C. Thato Keutlwile (Botswana)
Dressed by Funky Resy and Delayna Scott, Miss Botswana’s costume tells the story of the nation’s humble beginnings. Drawing inspiration from Botswana’s first inhabitants, it features traditional leather, including cowhide, which was historically used for clothing. The look honors the roots of Botswana’s identity with understated elegance.
Irene Mukii (Kenya)
Loudly and proudly, Irene Mukili celebrates her country’s legendary reputation in athletics with a costume inspired by long-distance running. The design celebrates the discipline, perseverance, and global acclaim of Kenyan runners.
Logina Salah (Egypt)
Channeling Cleopatra, Logina Salah’s costume, “The Rise from the Tomb,” brings ancient history to life. Designed by Simeon Cayetano, the piece reflects Cleopatra’s enduring legacy of leadership and legacy. The cape features hand-painted pyramids, the Sphinx, and hieroglyphics spelling “peace,” all of which symbolize Egypt’s strength through history and Salah’s wish for global harmony.
Khadija Omar (Somalia)
Khadija Omar’s show-stopping costume boasts of historical warrior Khadija. Featuring over 15,000 sparkling stones, its structured armor-like design reflects her courage and faith, while the leopard print nods to Somalia’s national animal. “As the first Somali woman and Muslim Hijabi to compete in Miss Universe, Khadija became my muse,” says Omar. “She is a queen in waiting-leading with grace, vision, and purpose.”
Ilda Amani (Democratic Republic of Congo)
Ilda Amani celebrates her nation’s artistry with a costume made from raffia weaving and Kuba fabric — traditional textiles deeply rooted in Congolese culture. Completing the look is a mask that pays homage to the spirit of the people and their enduring traditions.
Chidimma Adetshina (Nigeria)
Chidimma Adetshina’s costume is a tribute to Nigeria’s rich culture and modern landmarks. Designed by Se Adeoye, the coat features hand-painted depictions of popular Lagos landmarks like the Lekki-Ikoyi Bridge and National Theatre, opening to reveal a corset adorned with coral beads, and a towering headdress inspired by traditional comb.
Tania René (Mauritius)
Miss Mauritius celebrates the island’s spirit with a costume inspired by its joyous cultural festivals. The design, with its lively colors and playful elements, radiates the warmth and unity of Mauritius.
Nelma Ferreira (Angola)
Nelma Ferreira’s costume is inspired by Angola’s “Carnival of Victory,” or “Carnaval da Vitoria,” an annual carnival commemorating the withdrawal of the South African army from Angola in 1976. The costume is a celebration of independence and resilience, bursting with color and detail, and telling a story of history and triumph over adversity.
Saran Bah (Guinea)
Saran Bah donned a dazzling costume inspired by her Guinean heritage. The look combines warrior-like armor with a dramatic headdress, while the hut-like structure is a nod to her cultural roots and the warmth of community.
Judith Peter Ngusa (Tanzania)
With her costume, Judith Peter Ngusa draws from the Sukuma tribe’s traditions, incorporating bull horns and a drum that symbolize celebrations after a successful hunt. The design reflects the joy, pride, and deep connection to nature that define Tanzania’s heritage.
Noura Njikam (Cameroon)
Miss Cameroon took the stage as the African lion, a symbol of courage and leadership. Her costume represents Cameroon’s spirit and unwavering pride.
Fatou Bintou Gueye (Senegal)
Fatou Bintou Gueye’s costume is reminiscent of the traditional clothing of a culture known for their cattle herding. With leather aprons, face tattoos, and unique patterns, Gueye brings the beauty of Senegal to the global stage.
Sakhile Dube (Zimbabwe)
Titled “The Soaring Eagle,” this costume celebrates Zimbabwe’s natural beauty and historical significance. The base of Miss Zimbabwe’s costume features a rock pattern inspired by the Great Dzimba Dzemabwe, and Zimbabwe’s deep-rooted heritage as the seat of an ancient, powerful kingdom. The vivid wings evoke the rainbow over Victoria Falls, while the rock patterns pay homage to the Great Zimbabwe ruins.
Diana Angono Mouhafo (Equatorial Guinea)
Diana Angono Mouhafo’s costume is a call to preserve and protect African heritage. Crafted from cowries, feathers, and other local materials, it praises the artistry of the continent while advocating for the return of traditional relics to their rightful homes.
Brandina Lubili (Zambia)
Miss Zambia’s costume embodies the spirit of the Zambian eagle, a national symbol of strength. “This costume embodies the spirit of our people, who have persevered through countless challenges and continue to soar above adversity,” Lubili says in an Instagram post. “It serves as a reminder to the world that despite the global struggles we all face — pandemics, climate change, wars, and emotional hardships — like the eagle, we rise above it all.”
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