A new pageant aimed at reconnecting women of African descent to their roots while driving development in local communities has been officially launched in Accra.

The initiative, Miss Diaspora Ghana 2026, was unveiled at a colourful ceremony at the Accra City Hotel on Thursday, April 9, bringing together key stakeholders from tourism, culture and traditional leadership.

The event was graced by Director of Diaspora Affairs at the Office of the President, Kofi Okyere Darko, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Development Company, Prof. Kobby Mensah,  CEO of Exim Bank, Sylvester Mensah among others.

Speaking at the launch, founder of Miss Diaspora Ghana, Yvonne Kofigah described the platform as more than a beauty pageant, stressing that it is designed to create meaningful impact and strengthen ties between Ghana and the diaspora.

She explained that the initiative seeks to reconnect women of African descent to their heritage and channel their skills, exposure and resources into national development.

“Miss Diaspora Ghana is about creating real opportunities and impact. It is not just about the crown, but about what the contestants can do to make a difference,” she said.

Drawing from her personal journey in pageantry, Ms Kofigah noted that her experience on the global stage reshaped her understanding of what such platforms can achieve, inspiring her to create a project that promotes leadership and purpose.

A key highlight of the initiative is a community development project to be led by the winner of the maiden edition. The project will focus on the Akuapem Ridge, where a vocational and skills development centre is expected to be established.

The centre will train young people and women in practical skills such as cassava processing, entrepreneurship and modern production techniques to improve livelihoods in the area.

Also addressing the gathering, Prof. Mensah emphasised the role of tourism as a tool for economic transformation. He noted that initiatives like Miss Diaspora Ghana align with efforts to build inclusive industries, create jobs and attract diaspora investment.

He added that Ghana’s tourism sector is increasingly focused on empowering young people and supporting women through structured programmes and digital platforms that connect local businesses to global markets.

The launch ended with a call on corporate bodies, development partners and the diaspora community to support the initiative and contribute to its long-term vision of sustainable impact.

Miss Diaspora Ghana is expected to roll out a series of activities in the coming months leading to its maiden pageant event.