Miss Kenya Finishes in Top 5 at 2016 Miss World Beauty Pageant

On Sunday, Evelyne Njambi, a.k.a. Miss Kenya, became the only African who made it to the top five of the 2016 Miss World beauty pageant in Washington, D.C.

Overwhelmed by emotions, the 22-year-old interior design student, who is also the first Kenyan to hold the Miss World Africa title, couldn’t hide the joy of finishing among the top.

“I am humbled and greatly honored to have been the one representing not only my beautiful country, but Africa, too, to finish in the top five! I attribute my success to God’s unfailing love and grace,” Njambi was quoted by the Daily Nation.

Dressed in a long, red dress, Miss Kenya smiled confidently as she took her position in the glamorous beauty parade that was held at the National Harbour in Washington, D.C.

This year’s Miss World title went to Miss Puerto Rico, Stephanie Del Valle; followed by Miss Dominican Republic, Yaritza Miguelina Reyes Ramirez; and Miss Indonesia, Natasha Mannuela.

Beauty & Talent

Miss Njambi displayed great talent and intelligence during her Q&A session, where she even quoted the late-President of South Africa Nelson Mandela. When asked what needs to be done to improve education in the world, Njambi replied:

“We should begin by empowering every child in the world to understand that education is important. Former South African President Nelson Mandela said that it (education) is the weapon they should use to face the future.”

Her impressive performance comes a few months after Mr. Kenya, Kevin Oduor Owiti (pictured), emerged fourth in the men’s pageant in September.

This is great success considering that the two international beauty pageants bring together the world’s top talents, some from countries with exceptionally huge financial muscle.

Kenya has been participating in Miss World competitions since 1963, but the last decade wasn’t all rosy for the contestants as none of them made it to the top 10.

Local organizers of Miss World beauty pageant are now optimistic that the title will soon be coming to Kenya.

“We celebrate this victory today and are very proud of Evelyn and what she has achieved. This was a result of team work, and we are encouraged that our years of hard work are paying off,” said Terry Mungai of Ashleys Kenya.

Apart from beauty, the international competition also requires contestants to be intelligent and be involved in community work.