Pictorial: Pomp & glam as Miss Mpangi Jemimah is crowned Miss Tourism Busoga 2025/26 at a spectacular Grand Finale at Itanda Falls

Itanda Falls: The roaring waters of Itanda Falls provided a breathtaking backdrop as Busoga Kingdom celebrated one of its most vibrant cultural events of the year: Miss Tourism Busoga 2025/26. The pageant attracted an overwhelming turnout, drawing thousands of kingdom citizens, cultural leaders, government officials, and luminaries from sectors of leadership, entertainment, and heritage.

This year’s edition stood out for its rich cultural representation. Sixteen contestants, each the top queen from their respective chiefdoms Butembe, Kigulu, Bugabula, Bugweri, Luuka, Bulamogi, Bunhole, Bunha, and Buukoli competed for the coveted crown. Their presence showcased the unity, diversity, and beauty of Busoga’s cultural heritage.

The atmosphere throughout the day and evening was vibrant and full of energy. Attendees enjoyed a blend of music, dance, cultural showcases, delicious food, and uplifting interactions. Enthusiasm and pride filled the air as each contestant displayed grace, intelligence, and a deep understanding of Busoga’s tourism potential.

As the sun set over Itanda’s foaming rapids, Miss Mpangi Jemimah from Omwise Muganza clan, representing the Bunha Chiefdom, emerged victorious. At just 23 years old, she carried the night with her exceptional confidence, eloquence, and undeniable charm, earning her the crown of Miss Tourism Busoga 2025/26. The audience erupted in applause as she stepped forward, visibly moved by the overwhelming support.

She received glowing praise from the Minister for Tourism and Heritage, Owekitibwa Hellen Namutamba, who commended Jemimah’s resilience, determination, and confidence. In her speech, the minister warmly welcomed the new queen to what she described as “the most vibrant and active ministry of the Kingdom.”

Owekitibwa Namutamba also expressed profound gratitude to the First Deputy Prime Minister of Uganda and Minister for East African Affairs, who also serves as Chairperson of the Busoga Tourism Board Rt. Hon. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga. She praised her for her unwavering support towards Busoga’s tourism development and her nurturing role in empowering creatives and talents across the region. “She is definitely a mother figure of Busoga,” Namutamba remarked.

Furthermore, she acknowledged the continued support from the President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, thanking him for consistently financing and uplifting the kingdom’s tourism initiatives, including all editions of Miss Tourism Busoga.

The ceremony reached a momentous highlight as Owekitibwa Hellen Namutamba officially handed over two vehicles that had been promised to the tourism creatives, talents, and the Ministry a generous contribution from Rt. Hon. Alitwala Rebecca Kadaga and President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. The gesture underscored the government’s deep commitment to promoting culture, talent, and tourism in Busoga.

The event closed with jubilation, warm celebrations, and a renewed sense of cultural pride. This year’s Miss Tourism Busoga edition left an unforgettable imprint a powerful testament to Busoga’s identity, youth talent, and the kingdom’s growing influence in Uganda’s tourism landscape.

Miss Tourism Busoga 2025/26 has officially begun her reign and the kingdom couldn’t be more proud.