The Miss Tourism Uganda 2025 grand finale on Friday, September 5, turned into a dazzling celebration of beauty, culture, and talent, filling the stage with colour, elegance, and national pride.
The evening’s biggest moment came when Nachap Kezia Cindy was crowned Miss Tourism Uganda 2025, securing 316 points to edge out fierce competition. Overwhelmed with emotion, Cindy dedicated her crown to her mother, praising her for being a pillar of encouragement throughout the journey.
“I know much of the support came from my fans, but my mother never stopped believing in me. Even when I lost hope, she kept pushing me, assuring me that I would rise to the top. Tonight, I dedicate this crown to her,” she said.
She also paid tribute to her fellow contestants, reminding them that the crown did not define their worth: “All of you are queens, amazing and powerful in your own right. It’s never too late until it’s the end—go shine, girl!”
The finale produced winners across several categories, celebrating not only beauty but also talent, heritage, and advocacy. Nachap Kezia Cindy took the crown as Miss Tourism Uganda 2025, while Amusolo Pauline Leizel emerged as 1st Runner-Up and Akere M. Gabriella as 2nd Runner-Up. Ahebwomugisha Anna walked away with the titles of Miss Tourism Heritage and Miss Tourism Popularity. Karungi Bridget was named Miss Conservation and UWA Ambassador, Angwec Rita became Miss Environment, and Namugerwa Shivan Abwooli earned both Miss Congeniality and Rising Woman. Amusolo Pauline Leizel added Miss Photogenic and Best in Talent to her honours, while Aanyu Catrionah was crowned Miss Talent.
One of the most anticipated prizes of the night—the UWA Ambassadorial Award—went to Contestant No. 15, Karungi Bridget. Stephen Masaba, UWA’s Director of Tourism, praised her as “knowledgeable, grounded, and fully capable of representing Uganda nationally and internationally.”
Karungi’s role comes with a contract, a special green card granting her free access to all UWA-protected areas, and the honour of participating in the prestigious “Name a Gorilla” program.
The award, however, came with drama when the emcees mistakenly announced Contestant No. 14 as the winner. The slip briefly unsettled the crowd, but MC Tuwangwe quickly defused the tension, issuing an apology and gracefully escorting the wrongly announced contestant offstage—earning admiration for his professionalism.
The night was not only about crowns and titles. Live performances added sparkle to the event, with Rachael K and Jonathan the Diva electrifying the audience.
Rachael K’s gospel-inspired set proved the showstopper, especially her new single “Special Day,” which moved many in the audience to tears and worship. “A year ago, I was singing for the world, but tonight I sing for Jesus,” she declared, leaving the hall both spiritually uplifted and musically satisfied.
From moments of suspense and emotional speeches to captivating performances and cultural pride, the Miss Tourism Uganda 2025 finale celebrated not just beauty, but resilience, heritage, and the spirit of unity. It was a night that showcased the best of Uganda—its talent, its traditions, and its future ambassadors.
