Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
MODELS, Raphael Nyanyira of Buhera and Chidochashe Chiunya from Makoni District were crowned Mr and Miss Rural Manicaland prince and queen respectively at a colourful beauty and cultural pageant held at a local hotel last night.
The event, which returned after more than a decade-long break, attracted a sizeable crowd from across the province, all gathered to witness the glamorous celebration of rural talent, culture, and heritage.
Charles Chinhanu from Mutasa and Tarvin Mauchaza were named first and second princes respectively, while Princess Vannessa Mutambaneshiri of Mutare and Cecilia Chikaonda from Makoni were crowned first and second princesses.
Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa was the guest of honour.
She said the Miss Rural and Mr Rural pageant are cultural showcases and portals that can contribute to the country’s Gross Domestic Product through tourism and entrepreneurship.
“By supporting these youths, we help them provide for child headed homes, gain entrepreneurial skills, and access funding to build sustainable livelihoods. Activities like this instill community pride, preserve cultural identity, and empower the next generation. Unfortunately, rural communities have often been placed on the back burner, leaving these dreams forgotten. This neglect leads to poverty, which can be avoided through inclusivity, empowerment, and access to information. We must ensure that empowerment programs reach rural youths so they can thrive,” she said.
