Lands Minister Sylvia Masebo has found herself at the center of controversy after expressing her concerns over the revealing nature of swimwear worn by contestants at the Miss Universe Zambia 2025 finale. During her remarks, Masebo raised the issue of modesty, stating that while swimsuits were appropriate, she would not be comfortable seeing her daughter or granddaughter dressed in such revealing attire. She referred to the swimwear as “too much,” especially considering that the event was attended by families with children.
Masebo’s comments were met with loud disapproval from the audience, with many expressing their disagreement. As she continued, she emphasized that there were numerous swimsuit options available that were both beautiful and appropriate, without resorting to G-strings or overly revealing designs. Her suggestions seemed to draw an uncomfortable reaction, as the crowd repeatedly shouted “awe, awe!” in response to her statements.
In her capacity as both a government official and a parent, Masebo called for a balance between tradition and modernity, advocating for swimwear that would respect the cultural sensitivities of the Zambian society. While the Minister acknowledged the role of beauty pageants in empowering women and showcasing their confidence, she emphasized that modesty should not be sacrificed in the name of fashion or competition.
Her remarks have sparked a wider conversation about the evolving standards of beauty pageants in Zambia, with some supporting her call for modesty and others arguing for the freedom of expression and personal choice for contestants. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how future pageants will approach the issue of swimwear and what it says about the values shaping the nation’s cultural identity.