The international model will become the first Ugandan to compete at Miss Universe, joining a growing field of African queens set for the 2026 global pageant.
Kampala, Uganda (Running Africa) — Mitchelle Daka has been crowned Miss Universe Uganda 2026, securing her place in history as the woman who will lead Uganda’s first-ever participation at the Miss Universe pageant.
The 29-year-old international model and entrepreneur from Budaka District earned the national title following a standout performance that showcased her confidence, leadership and commitment to mental health advocacy, while highlighting her vision of promoting Uganda’s fashion and creative industries on the global stage.
Her victory marks a landmark moment for Ugandan pageantry as the country prepares to make its long-awaited debut at the 75th Miss Universe competition, which will be held in Puerto Rico later this year.
A Historic First for Uganda
Daka’s crowning represents a significant milestone in Uganda’s beauty pageant history, with the East African nation set to compete at Miss Universe for the first time.
Beyond the competition, Daka has pledged to use the international platform to champion mental health awareness while promoting Uganda’s growing fashion, creative and cultural industries to a global audience.
Africa Strengthens Its Presence at Miss Universe
Daka joins a growing list of African beauty queens preparing to represent the continent at one of the world’s most prestigious beauty competitions.
Confirmed delegates include:
- Jean Airo – Kenya
- Bajabulise Thela – South Africa
- Wanleia Rodrigues – Angola
- Dabilo Moses – Botswana
- Jesse Kalambayi – Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Mubanga Pamela – Zambia
- Rosseanna Hall (“The Golden Rose”) – Zimbabwe
- Katti Fofanah – Sierra Leone
Additional African countries are expected to crown their national winners in the coming months as preparations continue for the international competition.
Showcasing Africa Beyond Beauty
The Miss Universe pageant has increasingly evolved into a global platform celebrating leadership, entrepreneurship, advocacy and social impact alongside beauty.
This year’s African representatives are expected to spotlight causes ranging from mental health and women’s empowerment to education, sustainability and community development.
For Uganda, Daka’s historic qualification represents more than a pageant victory, it is an opportunity to introduce the country’s culture, talent and creative industries to millions of viewers worldwide.
As anticipation builds for the 75th Miss Universe competition in Puerto Rico, Uganda will step onto the Miss Universe stage for the first time, marking a new chapter for the nation’s pageantry and strengthening Africa’s growing influence in one of the world’s most recognized international beauty competitions.
