Sierra Leone Bids Farewell to Mariyam Lorba Konneh Ahead of Miss World

The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs has held a Colourful farewell ceremony for Mariyam Lorba Konneh, Sierra Leone’s representative at Miss World pageant in Vietnam this September. Event organised by Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs brought together government officials, cultural leaders, creative-industry members to celebrate Konneh’s journey and offer encouragement.

Emmanuel A.B. Turay, Head of Public Affairs and Communications at MTCA and master of ceremonies, said Konneh embodies grace, resilience, creativity of Sierra Leone. He said participation extends beyond beauty, serving to showcase national culture, heritage, and pride internationally, and aligns with MTCA strategy to promote Sierra Leone and attract tourism investment.

Dr. Adonis Aboud, chairman of Miss Sierra Leone Limited, said farewell demonstrated that Sierra Leonean women can stand tall on global stages. “Mariyam carries hopes of young women who aspire to lead, inspire, transform society,” he said.

Josephine Kamara, director general of Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation, described Konneh as symbol of rising creative talent. She urged compatriots, especially youth using digital platforms, and Sierra Leoneans abroad to support Konneh, saying diaspora backing will amplify her mission and open doors for artists and models.

Konneh thanked government, sponsors, and people of Sierra Leone, pledging to represent nation with dignity, pride, and passion. “This is not just my journey; it is our collective story of resilience and beauty,” she said, and appealed for national support.

Ceremony highlighted government commitment to using international platforms to rebrand Sierra Leone as hub for eco-tourism, cultural heritage, and creative industries, and served as celebration of national identity and call for unity.