The search for the next queen of Ghana’s Most Beautiful (GMB) is under way after 16 contestants were presented to the nation at the pageant’s 2026 launch in Accra.
The event, held at Labadi Beach Hotel on Sunday, 2 August 2026 and broadcast live on TV3, marked the 20th anniversary of a programme that has become one of Ghana’s most prominent celebrations of culture and national identity.
This year’s campaign is being staged under the theme, “Celebration: GMB@20 Celebrating 20 Years of Culture, Grace and Legacy.” It reflects both the history of the pageant and its plans for the season ahead.
The 16 regional representatives appeared in clothing inspired by their respective communities, showcasing the traditions, values and aspirations they will represent during the competition.
They are Ampomaa from the Ashanti Region, Anile from the Bono East Region, Arhinmaa from the Western Region, Tiwaa from the Western North Region, Piimi from the North East Region, Boatemaa from the Oti Region, Nana Ama from the Ahafo Region and Ohenewaa from the Eastern Region.
The remaining contestants are Kiba from the Savannah Region, Lamiley from the Greater Accra Region, An-Suaf Daabu from the Upper West Region, Sessinam from the Volta Region, Basi from the Northern Region, Ayinboma from the Upper East Region, Besiwaa from the Central Region and Nana Konadu from the Bono Region.
Each contestant brings an individual story, a distinct cultural background and a commitment to making an impact in her region and across Ghana.
The launch featured performances by Lasmid and Adina. Adina, who has composed the GMB theme song three times, has become closely associated with the programme’s musical history. Kwaku Shai, a standout performer from TV3’s Mentor Season XIV, “The Breakout Edition”, also appeared on the night.
The official theme songs for GMB@26 were premiered by their composers, Enam Music and Michael Adangba.
Anita Akua Akuffo and Cookie Tee were announced as the presenters for the season. Janet Sunkwa-Mills and Nana Hemaa Adwoa Awindor will lead the judging panel, with additional specialists joining them from week to week according to the subject being discussed.
The launch also took the form of a royal ball to celebrate the milestone. A fundraising appeal was held for the GMB Legacy Project, while judges and production crew members who have contributed to the pageant over the years were recognised.
Winners, first runners-up and second runners-up from every season since GMB began in 2007 were also celebrated. The gathering brought former champions and finalists together to honour the women who have carried the pageant’s crown and legacy through two decades.
Organisers have increased the prize package for this year’s winner. The eventual queen will receive a new crown, a car, GH₵200,000, a scholarship for a master’s programme and a gold jewellery set.
She will also have the opportunity to represent Ghana at the Miss Earth global pageant and receive an ambassadorial agreement with a sponsoring brand, extending her public platform beyond the competition.
The grand finale of GMB@20 will take place on 18 October 2026 at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra. Further anniversary events, including a fashion show and a folklore-themed programme at the University of Ghana Amphitheatre, are planned during the season.
Over its 20 years, Ghana’s Most Beautiful has used entertainment, education, storytelling and performance to promote national pride and highlight the country’s cultural diversity. The programme has also provided a platform for advocacy, public service and personal development, with former queens continuing to represent the ideals of GMB after their reigns.
The pageant has become a weekly meeting point for viewers across Ghana, bringing together audiences ranging from teenagers in Tamale to grandmothers in Winneba and traders in Kaneshie.
The GMB@26 episodes will be shown on TV3 every Sunday from 20:00 to 22:00.
