Miss World Namibia, Elly Aron's send-off gala dinner at Eenhana has raised N$116,000 in pledges, including the donation of one head of cattle by the former governor of Ohangwena, Usko Nghaamwa.

Speaking at the gala dinner, the Minister of Gender Equality and Child Welfare, Emma Kantema, said the funds will be used to support Namibia's preparations and participation in the Miss World competition, which will be held in Vietnam next month.

"In supporting Miss Elly Aron, we are not only supporting, we are affirming that we are offering the potential of our young people, that dignity and the ability of Namibia to shine on the world stage, and we will be shining in Vietnam. Let us remember this, when we empower the young person representing the nation, we are not sending one individual but all, you are sending the whole nation. When she walks on that stage, Eenhana will be in Vietnam, and Namibia will be in Vietnam.

She explained that representing Namibia at the Miss World pageant requires spending more than a month in Vietnam, making the campaign both demanding and costly.

To prepare and sustain Namibia's representation at Miss World requires more than N$300,000 to cover flight tickets, accommodation, mobility and other essential expenses.

Aron is expected to depart for Vietnam in August.