Ghana's bid to host the world finals of the Model Of The Universe pageant on Saturday, November 8, 2003, was given the greatest boost when Mr. John Singh, President of the Miss Tourism, holders of the franchise for the pageant, witnessed the launching of the programme in Accra last week.

With the launch of the event, Ghana has now been given the green light to host over 75 models from across the world for the event.

The high profile launch was graced by an equally high profile list of dignitaries which included the Vice President of Miss Tourism organisation, Mr. Chris Guina, Mr. Jake Obetsebi-Lamptey, Minister of Tourism and Modernisation of the Capital, Mr. Kwamena Bartels, Minister of Private Sector Development, Mr. Mike Gizo, MP for Shai Osudoku and Nana Akufo-Addo, Foreign Minister.

This year's event will depart from the traditional beauty pageant format. The current event is modelled to serve as a career building opportunity for ladies desirous of breaking into the ever-dynamic fashion world.

It is being hosted in Ghana by 1st Royale Company Limited following an impressive showing, which won them the franchise to organise the event.

Welcoming guests to the colourful event at the Adae Kese Hall of the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, Mr. Gizo, who is also the Chairman of the Planning Committee, said the world finals would showcase the best of Ghana's culture, adding that the presence of the President of Miss Tourism was an indication that Ghana was set for the final event.

Mr. Singh acknowledged that Ghana is a holiday tourism destination and appealed to journalists to help showcase the niceties of the country. This, he said, will help boost tourism in the country.

Mr. Obetsebi-Lamptey urged the organisers to show the great historical landmarks in Ghana. He said the fashion industry in Ghana has a bright future and called for support for the organisers.

Ms. Akosua Puni of 1st Royale said the event was a great challenge to them and called on institutions and organisations to come on board to make the world finals a success.

The launching ceremony saw some good display of Ghana's rich culture like the beautiful Ga traditional dances.