South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Gaston McKenzie, has expressed opposition to the participation of Soweto-born Chidimma Adetshina in the 2024 Miss South Africa pageant, citing her Nigerian-Mozambican heritage.
Minister McKenzie described her inclusion as giving “funny vibes.”
Ms. Adetshina, who has advanced to the final 16 of the competition, has sparked significant debate about her nationality. Some South Africans are calling for her disqualification, asserting that her background disqualifies her from the contest.
The 23-year-old law student has faced ridicule and discriminatory remarks on social media, with thousands signing an online petition for her removal from the pageant.
In response to social media criticism, Minister McKenzie stated he would seek further information but emphasized that allowing a Nigerian to compete in Miss South Africa was unacceptable.
“I just returned from Paris and will definitely get more information tomorrow. We truly cannot have Nigerians compete in our Miss SA competition. I want to get all facts before I comment, but it already gives funny vibes,” McKenzie tweeted.
Despite the controversy, Miss South Africa organizers have confirmed Ms. Adetshina’s eligibility, stating that she has a South African mother and a Nigerian father, and holds a valid South African passport that has been verified.
“All documentation provided by the entrants is screened and vetted. Chidimma is a South African citizen. Her mother is South African (Zulu), and her father is Nigerian,” the organizers affirmed.
The grand finale of the 66th Miss South Africa competition will take place on August 10, 2024, in Pretoria. The winner will go on to represent South Africa at the Miss Universe 2024 pageant in Mexico.
