Zim to host World Heritage pageant

This is going to be a rare platform for Zimbabweans and the rest of Africa to celebrate “Women of Substance”, who are not defined by perfect swimsuit bodies, but rather embody the virtues of a global heritage ambassador.

The founder and president of the beauty pageant, Mr Venanacius Rukero of Namibia, and the local organising committee on Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding at Gecko Gardens.
The pageant will run under the theme “Zimbabwe My Country, Our World Heritage”.
This is to support the local tourism and business for which the country will not pay any hosting fee.

Mr Rukero attacked the existing world pageant criteria that has been “euro-centric” and never recognised organisations owned by Africans.
“Zimbabwe is a beautiful country and this year it is going to host the most prestigious world pageant finals for the first time.

“The country is not going to incur any expenses on this pageant as it is scheduled to host the UNWTO.
“It is a fact that most of these organisations are owned and co-founded by people outside Africa, but this time Zimbabwe and Namibia have joined hands to bring this activity into full swing from an African perspective, young and creative as we are,” he said.

He also condemned child abuse which is rife in most countries and encouraged the governments to rally behind the girl child.
“As we bring this activity to Zimbabwe and Africa at large, governments and organisations should come together to curb problems faced by the youths. This should be an opportune moment for Zimbabwe to showcase the wonders it has to the whole world,” added Mr Rukero.

International Director of the World Heritage pageant organisation, Mr Sifiso Xaba of South Africa urged Zimbabweans to capitalise on the pageant.
“Let Zimbabweans take note that the world is waiting for the outcome of this pageant, if it fails, they will heavily blame and say negative things about the country,” he said.

Formerly Miss Cultural Heritage, the pageant was formed in Namibia in 2009 by Rukero under the patronage of the Namibia First lady Madam Penehupifo Pohamba.