Harriet Bongonyinge of Lira City has been crowned Miss Tourism Northern Uganda 2026/2027 after emerging as the winner of a highly competitive pageant held at Lavington 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 first runner-up, while Patricia Prosper Atim from Lira District finished as second runner-up.
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 industrialisation, science, technology and innovation.
She noted that this year’s theme, which focuses on artificial intelligence, tourism and culture, aligns 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 young people 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.
Dr Lakisa further applauded the organisers and development partners for creating opportunities that equip young people with skills and help address youth unemployment.
Dr Mercy Faith Lakisa, Minister of State for Children and Youth Affairs, speaking on the need for parents to support and nurture their children’s talents for a better future.
During the event, Fred Kabuye, Head of Community Awareness at the National Drug Authority, raised concern over the increasing cases of substance and drug abuse among young people.
He called on parents, schools, community leaders and other stakeholders to work together to protect the next generation, warning that addiction is robbing many young people of their potential.
Fred Kabuye, Head of Community Awareness at the National Drug Authority, speaking on the need for parents and stakeholders to work together to combat substance and drug abuse among young people.
Dr Andrew Odur patching one of the queens.
The Director of Lira Regional Referral Hospital, Dr Andrew Odur, urged the public to adopt healthy lifestyles in order to prevent non-communicable diseases. He congratulated the finalists and encouraged them to continue pursuing their ambitions.
Dr Andrew Odur, Director of Lira Regional Referral Hospital, speaking on the need for the public to avoid excessive alcohol consumption and adopt healthier lifestyles.
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.
