Chidimma Adetshina Drops Out of Miss South Africa Pageant

Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina, a 23-year-old South African model and beauty pageant contestant, has withdrawn from the Miss South Africa 2024 competition.

This decision comes amidst a storm of controversy surrounding her nationality and allegations against her mother.

Adetshina, who had advanced to the Top 30 and was a finalist in the competition, announced her withdrawal on August 8, 2024, citing the safety and well-being of her family as her primary concern.

The controversy began when questions arose about Adetshina's citizenship. Born in Soweto to a Nigerian father and a South African mother with Mozambican roots, Adetshina faced intense scrutiny and xenophobic backlash.

The situation escalated when the South African Department of Home Affairs launched an investigation into her mother's identity. Preliminary evidence suggested that Adetshina's mother may have committed fraud and identity theft by stealing a South African woman's identity to register Adetshina's birth in 2001.

In a statement, Adetshina expressed her gratitude for the support she received throughout her journey in the Miss South Africa competition.

She stated, "After much careful consideration, I have decided to withdraw myself from the competition for the safety and well-being of my family and me." The Miss South Africa Organisation supported her decision, sharing her post on their Instagram story.

The Miss South Africa pageant, held at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria, aims to select representatives for international beauty pageants such as Miss Universe and Miss Supranational. Contestants are expected to be brand ambassadors for South Africa, championing women's rights and inspiring young South Africans.