MTCA Leads National Reception in Honour of Sierra Leone’s Global Ambassador
MTCA, FREETOWN, 6th September, 2026 – The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs (MTCA), on behalf of the Government and people of Sierra Leone, is spearheading plans for a grand and rousing welcome home for Miss World Sierra Leone 2026, Mariyam Lorba Konneh, following her commendable participation at the prestigious Miss World Beauty Pageant held in Vietnam.
The homecoming celebration is expected to bring together government officials, members of the diplomatic community, cultural performers, youth groups, tourism stakeholders, and well-wishers from across the country to celebrate a young woman who carried the nation’s flag with dignity, confidence, and grace on the international stage.
Representing Sierra Leone among more than one hundred of the world’s most accomplished young women, Mariyam Lorba Konneh distinguished herself through her elegance, intelligence, cultural pride, and commitment to social causes. Her participation showcased Sierra Leone’s rich cultural heritage and highlighted the country’s growing profile as a destination of beauty, resilience, and opportunity.
In a statement issued ahead of her arrival, the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs expressed profound gratitude to the beauty queen for her outstanding representation of the nation.
On behalf of His Excellency the President, the Government, and the people of Sierra Leone, the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs extends its heartfelt appreciation to Mariyam Lorba Konneh for serving as an exceptional ambassador for our country. She represented Sierra Leone with honour, humility, confidence, and patriotism, demonstrating the values and aspirations of our people before a global audience.
The Ministry further commended Mariyam’s poise throughout the competition, noting that her performance had inspired many young Sierra Leoneans, especially girls, to pursue excellence and believe in their potential.
The Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis, described Mariyam’s journey as a source of immense national pride.
“Mariyam has shown the world the beauty, intelligence, resilience, and cultural richness of Sierra Leone. Beyond the pageant stage, she has embodied the spirit of our nation and served as a positive role model for our youth. We are proud of her achievements and look forward to welcoming her home as one of our distinguished ambassadors.”
The Minister added that her participation aligns with the government’s broader efforts to use culture, tourism, arts, and international engagements to project a positive image of Sierra Leone globally.
Across Freetown and beyond, citizens have been expressing admiration for Mariyam’s accomplishment and the dignified manner in which she represented the nation.
A university student described her as “a symbol of determination and self-confidence who carried Sierra Leone with pride.”
A market trader at Eastern Police praised her humility and grace, saying her performance had given Sierra Leoneans “another reason to celebrate our country on the world stage.”
A youth leader in Bo noted that Mariyam’s appearance at the competition demonstrated that Sierra Leonean women can compete confidently anywhere in the world.
Meanwhile, tourism stakeholders welcomed the international visibility generated by her participation, emphasising that every global platform presents an opportunity to showcase Sierra Leone’s culture, hospitality, and tourism potential.
Observers say the planned reception is not merely a welcome for a beauty pageant participant but a celebration of national identity, cultural pride, and youth empowerment.
As preparations gather momentum, excitement continues to build for what promises to be a colourful and memorable homecoming ceremony. Traditional performances, cultural displays, and welcome activities are expected to accompany the reception, turning the occasion into a celebration of Sierra Leone’s talent and global presence.
For many Sierra Leoneans, Mariyam Lorba Konneh returns not only as Miss World Sierra Leone but as a proud daughter of the nation who stood before the world with confidence and distinction.
And when she arrives home, a grateful nation will be waiting to say, “Welcome home, Mariyam.” Sierra Leone is proud of you.
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