11 Queens, One Crown: Miss Tourism East Africa Camp Opens at Marriott Hotel Kampala

What the report says

The Miss Tourism East Africa pageant has opened its training camp at the Marriott Hotel in Kampala, where 11 contestants are preparing for the regional competition. According to Watchdog Uganda, the contestants began intensive training on Sunday under the guidance of Allan Kanyike, who serves as the director of Miss Tourism East Africa in Uganda.

The field is led by Uganda’s Babra Tushabe and includes participants from several East and Central African countries, including Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo and South Sudan. The event is being framed by organizers as more than a beauty contest, with Kanyike describing it as a “Beauty with Purpose” platform meant to promote confidence, cultural representation and community service.

Watchdog Uganda reported that contestants are being trained in self-esteem, fitness and cultural awareness ahead of the final show. One South Sudan contestant, Rygan Kurita, said she hopes to use the platform to support orphans and encourage young girls in her country. She also pointed to social challenges in South Sudan, including early marriage.

The competition’s finale is expected to draw a large crowd and include reigning title holders from other countries. Organizers are also using the Kampala camp to attract sponsors and investors, underscoring the event’s wider tourism and cultural promotion aims.