Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube
BEITBRIDGE exploded with glamour on 27 September when Miss Rural Zimbabwe’s Matebeleland South Province pageant lit up the border town. Out of 15 hopefuls, 23-year-old Nomatter Silibele Mpofu from Insiza was crowned queen, clinching the coveted crown with grit and grace.
Mpofu, who hails from Mbondweni under Chief Maduna, said her win was inspired by her dream to be a voice for young people in rural areas. “I want to advocate for rural development and speak for girls facing challenges like poor schools, bad roads, teenage pregnancies and lack of internet. Growing up in a rural village taught me resilience,” she told B-Metro.
Her family’s encouragement and her grandfather, a local councillor, fueled her determination. “I never expected to win. To the girl child, I say believe in yourself. You can achieve anything.”
The pageant was not just about crowns and catwalks. Winners walked away with tangible empowerment. Mpofu bagged 2 000 chicks donated by HAMARA and business start-up support to launch income-generating projects in her community. “I will use this to help disadvantaged children,” she vowed.
The event also featured five male models, with the Matabeleland South Rural King Descent Moyo beaming with pride, after showcasing his culture. “It was difficult at first, but we became a family. I cruised through until the competition was held,” he said.
Organiser Sipho Mazibuko admitted the road to the show was rocky but rewarding. “I faced many challenges, but with help from the Beitbridge Town Clerk, ministries, companies and parents, we pulled it off,” she said, thanking partners ranging from Zimpapers to Ingwebu Breweries.
Miss Rural Masvingo, Angelina Taruvanda, also used the platform to call for solutions to rural unemployment. “Many migrate to South Africa for jobs and come back in body bags. We need opportunities at home,” she said.
For Mpofu, the crown is not the end but the beginning. From beauty queen to rural ambassador, she wants to prove that village girls can shine just as bright as city lights.
Londile Moyo