Anna Ahebwomugisha, a contestant from Sheema District, has been crowned Miss Tourism Ankole 2025.
The regional finals were held at Crane Resort Hotel in Ishaka, Bushenyi, drawing crowds from across western Uganda. Ahebwomugisha’s win earned her a place at the national Miss Tourism Uganda finals, set for September 5 at the Kampala Serena Hotel.
Judges cited her strong grasp of Ankole’s cultural history, her fluency in public speaking, and her dedication to promoting heritage.
“She stood out,” one judge said. “You could see she had a deep connection to the culture she was representing.”
As titleholder, Ahebwomugisha will serve as Ankole’s cultural ambassador—tasked with promoting tourism sites, traditions, and local history across the region.
Joining her on the podium were Asiimwe Mary Vanessa of Mbarara District, named First Runner-Up, and Akandekaho Sharon from Lyantonde, the Second Runner-Up. All three will represent Ankole at the national level.
This year’s event ran under the theme “I Am My Culture.” Organizers framed it as more than a beauty pageant—calling it a space for youth to reclaim and celebrate identity.
“The pageant is a storytelling platform,” said one organizer. “It’s about giving voice to our culture and encouraging young people to own it.”
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The finalists are expected to take part in tourism outreach programs, school visits, and digital campaigns. They’ll spotlight Ankole’s cultural icons—from traditional dress and music to historical sites and cuisine.
The Miss Tourism initiative, backed by the Uganda Tourism Board and local cultural leaders, is part of a broader campaign to boost domestic tourism. It’s also seen as a way to preserve regional heritage in the face of modernization.
