Uganda set to host 5th edition of Miss Curvy Africa

The previous editions were held in Nigeria (twice), and South Africa and Ghana hosted once.

Mungoma, who was speaking at the official launch of the fifth edition of the Miss Curvy Africa contest at Mosa Courts in Kampala, said that the competition will attract participation from over 20 countries across Africa.

The event was also graced by Miss Curvy Nigeria Chief Executive Tracy Awili, who said that this year's contest will be organised under the theme: ‘Celebrating the African Woman.’

Tracy Awili and Annie Mungoma Pulse

The annual contest is aimed at appreciating and identifying talent among ladies across Africa by showcasing their adverse culture.

"Miss Curvy is not about celebrating beauty, but we celebrate the African woman in fashion, mental power, talent, and culture," said Mungoma, adding that "it'll be an auspicious event."

The Minister of State for Gender and Culture Peace Regis Mutuuzo endorsed the initiative, saying that it will help in boosting the tourism sector because Uganda has one of the most diverse cultures in the world.

"We believe beauty comes in different sizes," the minister said, adding that it'll also help demystify biases that have been rooted in our cultures for years.

"Under the third National Development Program, we have a program about mindset change, and we want Ugandans to open their minds about the incomes that we've not been tapping into. We've lost a number of young girls being forced into early marriages... Today we want to unveil that they remain young, they remain beautiful, and they represent African shapes. They are also part of our culture and... they have a future, no matter what shape," Minister Mutuzo said.

Finalists from the 2019 Miss Curvy Uganda competition Pulse

The First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga urged the contestants to look for causes to advocate for once the competition is done, citing climate change and gender equality.

"We have small Ugandans who are beautiful. We have big Ugandans who are beautiful. All these are our children... Be what you are and be who you are," Kadaga said.

"The competition is not just about curves and bums, it’s about size."

Awili noted that the existing Nigerian Miss Curvy Queen launched an initiative to support less privileged children in Nigeria.

The grand finale will be held on November 25 at Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala. Belinda Nansasi is the reigning Miss Curvy Uganda.