Shamsa Nalumu has emerged as Miss Uganda Central after beating a field of contestants at the regional finale held over the weekend at Motiv Bugolobi.
The event brought the regional leg of the Miss Uganda search to a close, with young women from across Central Uganda competing for an opportunity to advance to the national stage.
For the contestants, the competition was as much about representing their communities as it was about winning the crown. Each entrant sought to use the platform to showcase her confidence, personality and ambitions while carrying the name of her hometown into the next phase of the competition.
The finale also blended pageantry with entertainment, with singer Nina Roz providing the night’s musical highlight. She performed some of her popular songs, including Andele, Onoozina and Billboard Kipande, keeping the audience engaged as the competition progressed.
Away from the stage, attention also turned to the international Miss World campaign of the reigning Miss Uganda, Trivia Elle Muhoza.
Miss Uganda Foundation chief executive officer Brenda Nanyonjo used the occasion to appeal to Ugandans to rally behind Muhoza as she represents the country at the Miss World Pageant.
“Guys, this is a plea that you tell everyone you know to support Miss Uganda Trivia Elle, who is raising the Ugandan flag on the global stage. Wherever you are, spare some time and vote for her to win. Let us stand in solidarity with her; she needs our support,” Nanyonjo said.
The evening eventually returned to the competition, with the final results confirming Shamsa as the regional winner.
Naluwu Hilda finished as first runner-up, while Kagabo Jazmine was named second runner-up.
The conclusion of the Central regional contest means the nationwide search has now moved another step closer to the final stage. Contestants who have emerged from the different regional competitions will proceed to a Miss Uganda bootcamp, where they will undergo preparation and training ahead of the national finale.
The grand finale is scheduled for October 10, 2026.
Speaking after the Central leg, V&A Sherry brand manager Roy Ronald Tumwizere congratulated the successful contestants and reflected on the journey that began in Jinja.
“I am really happy that we have finally reached the end of the regional tour. From where it began in Jinja City to the central region, we have seen young women across the country step forward with confidence, represent where they come from, and give themselves a chance to dream bigger,” Tumwizere said.
He congratulated Shamsa, Hilda and Jazmine on their respective finishes and wished the remaining finalists well as they prepare for the next stage of the competition.
With the regional search now complete, attention shifts to the bootcamp, where the successful contestants will compete for a place at the national finale and, ultimately, the Miss Uganda crown.
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