Tourism stakeholders in the Kigezi sub-region have called on the government to provide greater support for the Miss and Mr. Tourism competitions. This appeal was made during the 2024 Mr. and Miss Tourism Kigezi grand finale and crowning hosted at Little Ritz Inn in Central Division of Kabale Municipality last night, aiming to amplify the region’s allure through the representation of local ambassadors.
13 contestants competed in the 2024 Miss and Mr. Kigezi competitions. This year marks the 9th edition of the Miss category and the 3rd for the Mr. Category.
During the crowning ceremony, Eng. Ivan Batuma, chairman of the Kigezi Tourism Cluster, noted that while the government has provided a platform through the Ministry of Tourism, it has yet to fully support the young talented youth involved in tourism. He emphasized that the government should allocate more budget to such initiatives, enabling the Miss Tourism titleholder to serve as a flag bearer for Uganda.
“The government needs to come on board and budget more for these initiatives so that Miss and Mr. Tourism can be a flag bearer for Uganda”, said Batuma.
Hon Roland Ndyomugyenyi Bish, the Rukiga County legislator, expressed his gratitude for seeing young talented youth showcasing their skills. He noted that such competitions not only promote culture but also enhance and nurture the talents of the youth. Ndyomugyenyi also highlighted that these events could be a means for job creation in the future, encouraging young people to continue showcasing their talents.
“Competitions like these can be a way for job creation in the future. The government should embrace and support them to enhance and nurture youth talents”, remarked Ndyomugyenyi.
The Miss and Mr. Kigezi competitions occur annually, drawing contestants from the six districts that make up the Kigezi sub-region, including Kabale, Kisoro, Kanungu, Rubanda, Rukiga, and Rukungiri.
Patricia Ahumuza was crowned the 2024 Miss Kigezi replacing Pauline Ampeire, and Freeman Ahwera was crowned Mr. Kigezi replacing Henrick Twesigye.
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