BUSIA HOSTS MISS TOURISM EASTERN REGION 2026

On June 27, 2026, Coconut Beach in Majanji, Busia District, hosted the Miss Tourism Eastern Region 2026 competition, bringing together ten contestants from across Eastern Uganda. The event combined cultural performances, tourism messaging, and stakeholder engagement, and positioned Busia as a capable host for regional cultural and tourism activities.

Throughout the day and evening, Coconut Beach served as a meeting point for contestants, ministry of tourism officials, organizers, partners, guests, and tourism stakeholders from various eastern districts and beyond. The program featured segments that highlighted traditional dress, dance, and regional attractions, giving each contestant an opportunity to present the distinct identity of her area.

District Tourism Officer, Sumba Irene noted that the event was designed to promote tourism in Eastern Uganda, celebrate cultural heritage, and identify ambassadors who can consistently speak for the region’s attractions. She also emphasized that hosting the competition in Busia was part of a broader effort to position the district as a welcoming destination for high-profile cultural and tourism events.

After the different presentations and assessments by the judges, three contestants emerged as title holders; Contestant No. 7, Noeline Mandu from Bugisu Region, was crowned Miss Tourism Eastern Region 2026.Contestant No. 1, Jane Martha Kasuswa from Busoga Region, was named 1st Runner-Up, contestant No. 5, Laeticia Matinyi from Bugisu Region, was announced as 2nd Runner-Up.

All ten contestants participated actively, and their performances contributed to a competitive and engaging event. The newly crowned Miss Tourism and her runners-up are expected to serve as regional ambassadors, promoting tourism through school outreach, media appearances, and community events.

During the event, the Guest of Honour, Hon. Anyango Janet Hope Webby, commended the organizers for selecting Busia as the host district and expressed support for initiatives that promote tourism, culture, and positive visitor experiences.

Nali Josephine, former miss Toursim runner up, who was one of the judges of the event also addressed the audience, calling for continued collaboration to strengthen tourism in Eastern Region. She highlighted the need for shared responsibility among stakeholders and reinforced the view that cultural events can serve as effective vehicles for tourism growth when supported consistently.

The Miss Tourism Eastern Region 2026 competition is one of the most remarkable events hosted in the district as the financial year 2025/2026 closed supported by Ministry of Tourism Wildlife and antiquities enhancing regional pride and highlighting Busia’s capacity as a host destination.