Miss Rwanda 2017

Elsa Iradukunda was crowned Miss Rwanda 2017 beating 15 finalists on February 25th, in a colorful event held at the Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village.

Iradukunda, a senior-six graduate from King David High School, who represented the Northern Province in the preliminaries, emerged the topmost contender for the beauty pageant, beating Guelda Shimwa to the crown.

Guelda Shimwa was the first runner up, followed by Linda Umutoniwase, 20, the second runner-up.

The new beauty queen walked back home with a brand new Suzuki Swift worth Rwf15 million, courtesy of the main sponsor Cogebanque, a local bank.

Besides, Iradukunda will be getting a monthly salary of Rwf 800,000, according to the organisers, among other perks.

For the first time in the history of Miss Rwanda pageant, all the 15 finalists were given full scholarships to pursue undergraduate degrees at Mahatma Ghandhi University.

This year’s Miss Rwanda contest put much emphasis on cultural tourism and renowned traditional dance troupe Inganzo Ngari, among other local artistes, were the main performers.

This year’s contest also included a talent show besides the catwalk and question-and-answer sessions. The contestants showcased different “hidden treasures” through dancing, singing and comedy.

Rwanda participated for the first time in Miss World in 2016, this will be Rwanda´s second representative in the pageant. Another organization send representatives from Rwanda to Miss Supranational.

Congratulations to the winner!

Source: The News Time / photos Nadege Imbabazi