For the first time in history, an African pageantry is set to do something different from the usual to make the competition unique.
The Miss Cote d’Ivoire 2025 beauty pageant has announced a ban on the use of weaves, wigs, and any other hair extensions during the preselection stages of the competition.
Other adjustments of the pageant include the minimum height requirement which has been adjusted from 1.68 meters to 1.67 meters. The age limit has also been extended from 25 years to 28 years.
This decision is to encourage natural African beauty amongst women. The organizing committee emphasized that the moves is to also preach authenticity, encouraging contestants to showcase their natural hair and embrace their true selves, reflecting a shift towards empowering women to feel confident without relying on artificial enhancements.
The president of the organizing committee, Victor Yapobi, referenced past participants at the Miss Universe pageant that presented themselves with short natural hair.
This new requirement was also influenced by Marlene Kouassi who was crowned Miss Cote d’Ivoire in 2022. Kouassi participated in the pageant with short hair. The initiative aims at promoting self-acceptance and confidence among contestants.
The crowning of the Miss Cote d’Ivoire 2025 will take place on June 26, 2025.
