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Harriet Bongonyinge wins Miss Tourism Northern Uganda crown

28 June 2026, 7:32 pm

Some of the crowned queens for Miss Tourism Northern 2026/2027.

By Winnie Auma

Harriet Bongonyinge of Lira City has been crowned Miss Tourism Northern Uganda 2026/2027 after emerging winner in a highly competitive pageant held at Livingston Park in Lira City.The event attracted 13 contestants from across Northern Uganda, showcasing the region’s culture, tourism potential and talent.

Melissa Bridget Atim from Gulu was named the first runner-up, while Patricia Prosper Atim from Lira District finished as the second runner-up.

The contestants on stage during the pageantry.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr. Mercy Faith Lakisa, praised the Miss Tourism Uganda initiative for empowering young women while promoting Uganda’s tourism, culture and innovation.Dr. Lakisa said tourism remains one of Uganda’s key drivers of economic growth alongside industrialization, science, technology and innovation.

She noted that this year’s theme, which focuses on artificial intelligence, tourism and culture, is in line with the country’s development agenda.The minister also commended the outstanding performances by contestants, saying they reflected the immense creativity and talent among young people in Northern Uganda.

She encouraged youth involved in the creative industry to take advantage of government funding available through the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development to grow their careers.She further applauded the organizers and development partners for creating opportunities that equip young people with skills and help tackle youth unemployment.

Dr Mercy Lakisa rallied parents to support the talent of their children for a better future.

During the event, Fred Kabuye the head of community awareness for National Drug Authority also raised concern over the increasing cases of substance and drug abuse among young people. They called on parents, schools, community leaders and other stakeholders to work together to protect the next generation, warning that addiction is robbing many youths of their potential.

Fred Kabuye rallies parents and stakeholders to work together to fight against substance and drug abuse.
Dr Andrew Odur patching one of the queens.

Lira Regional Referral Hospital Director, Dr. Andrew Odur, urged the public to adopt healthy lifestyles to prevent non-communicable diseases. He congratulated the finalists and encouraged them to continue pursuing their ambitions.

Dr Andrew Odur, the Lira Regional Referral Hospital director warned the public against excessive alcohol consumption.

The Cluster Head for Miss Tourism Northern Uganda, Gloria Alele, thanked the sponsors, partners, contestants and cluster coordinators for their support in making the event a success.

Meanwhile, the newly crowned Miss Tourism Northern Uganda 2026/2027, Harriet Bongonyinge, expressed gratitude to her team and everyone who supported her throughout the competition.

Bongonyinge pledged to use her crown to champion the fight against drug abuse among young people while promoting tourism, culture and the rich heritage of Northern Uganda through various platforms and community engagements.

The colourful event celebrated Northern Uganda’s rich cultural heritage, tourism attractions and youthful talent, while reinforcing the importance of investing in young people through skills development, health promotion and employment opportunities.