Organisers of "Queen of Africa" have officially launched a groundbreaking pan-African reality television show aimed at amplifying women's leadership, cultural identity, and advocacy across the continent. Unveiled at a press briefing on Tuesday, the project is described as the first of its kind in Africa. Executive Producer and Creative Director, Jerry Nrailike, along with Gina Orazu and Christian Ruart, convened the launch. The inaugural edition will feature 54 women, one representative from each of Africa's 54 countries, competing over 90 days for the title of Queen of Africa, also referred to as Africa's First Lady.

Mr. Nrailike emphasized that the initiative transcends the traditional scope of a beauty contest, being specifically structured around leadership, advocacy, and social impact. He stated, "Queen of Africa is a movement aimed at breaking the glass ceiling and accelerating women's development across Africa." The platform was meticulously created to confront entrenched gender inequality, challenge long-standing cultural barriers, and empower underprivileged women within underserved African communities. The organisers underscored their commitment, stating, "Women have long been marginalised due to cultural and societal barriers. Our goal is to empower women, especially those who need it most."

The competition sets specific eligibility criteria, welcoming women aged 25 to 40. Registration, priced at approximately $50, will be open online for three months. Contestants must demonstrate fluency in their native language as well as in English or French, alongside exhibiting intelligence, cultural awareness, leadership capacity, and talent. Each participating country will nominate one contestant through a transparent selection process that encourages both local participation and global audience engagement. The reality television series is scheduled to air daily episodes between June and September, departing from continuous 24-hour coverage. It will be broadcast free of charge across television, digital platforms, and social media channels, ensuring broad accessibility. Mr. Nrailike clarified that the winner would be primarily determined through paid public voting, characterized as an "election-style" process distinct from a "conventional pageant." Proceeds generated from this voting mechanism are pledged to support humanitarian and social impact initiatives continent-wide.

The esteemed winner of Queen of Africa will be awarded a substantial $50,000 cash prize, a customized vehicle courtesy of indigenous automobile manufacturer Innoson Motors, and additional sponsorship rewards. To ensure global visibility, organisers have confirmed strategic partnerships, including one with New York Fashion Week, providing the winner with international exposure through fashion and media collaborations. International broadcast support is also anticipated from partners such as Simply Me TV, which operates across major global markets. Addressing concerns regarding the project's longevity, Mr. Nrailike affirmed its structure as "a biennial event, backed by multiple producers and international partners to ensure continuity." An open call has been issued to corporate sponsors across various sectors, including telecommunications, beverages, cosmetics, food, and manufacturing, urging their support for this crucial continental platform for empowerment and advocacy. Gina Orazu further highlighted the critical importance of African-led storytelling, asserting, "We need to push Africa forward by telling our own stories and celebrating our excellence."

Upon being crowned, the Queen of Africa will assume the significant role of a continental ambassador. Her responsibilities will include traveling across countries, engaging with leaders, and lending her influential voice to social and humanitarian causes that profoundly affect Africans both on the continent and in the diaspora. As preparations move forward, anticipation builds for the 54 women poised to step onto this global stage, ready to redefine leadership, challenge existing barriers, and proudly showcase Africa's rich cultural strength to the world.