Former Miss Tourism Teso Set to Represent Uganda in Nigeria

Alison Mary Akello, the former Miss Tourism Teso, departed Uganda on Saturday, heading to Lagos, Nigeria, where she will represent the country at the Miss Tourism Africa – International (MTA) competition. Akello, who handed over her crown in August to the newly crowned Miss Tourism Teso, Betty Acam Okello, was selected for this prestigious competition based on her leadership, confidence, and eloquence demonstrated in previous roles.
The third season of Miss Tourism Africa, set for October 1, will take place at the Landmark Centre in Lagos, starting at 6 p.m. East African Time. Organizers of the event have promised a spectacular evening of culture, talent, and beauty. Akello will be among 20 contestants from various African countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Chad, Benin, Malawi, Namibia, Eritrea, and others.
Her participation in the contest comes after spending weeks preparing through a series of tasks, including shooting videos that highlight the beauty and tourist attractions of Uganda. Akello views the competition as an opportunity to showcase the unique sights and sounds of Uganda to an international audience.
Speaking just before her departure at Entebbe International Airport, Akello expressed her enthusiasm for the event. “I want that by the time I leave Nigeria, people will be able to see the beauty of Uganda through me,” she said. “This is the only opportunity for me to sell our country to the world.”
In her journey toward representing Uganda on the international stage, Akello’s achievements have been notable. In 2023, she won the Miss Tourism Teso crown and went on to compete in the Miss Tourism Uganda contest, where she finished as the second runner-up. Her passion for promoting cultural heritage and conserving ecotourism has been evident since childhood, and she believes her current role is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.
Akello thanked Shilla Aanyu Ogeuna, CEO of Miss Tourism Teso, for her mentorship. “She has been tough on me to ensure that I represent my region boldly, and here I am today, ready to take my flight to Lagos.”
Akello’s journey began in her hometown of Angobo village, Katakwi district. She attended Apuuton Primary School and later joined Bishop Cipriano Kihangire Secondary School before pursuing higher education at Uganda Christian University (UCU), where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Governance. Akello credits her educational background with shaping her confidence and ability to represent Uganda on the global stage. She encouraged young girls to pursue their dreams and never give up, regardless of the challenges they may face.
At Entebbe International Airport, Akello was accompanied by her parents, the reigning Miss Tourism Teso, Betty Acam Okello, and the 2023 Miss Tourism Africa contestant, Vanitah Faith Busingye. Their support marked a symbolic send-off as Akello prepared to compete for the Miss Tourism Africa title in Nigeria.
Contestants Participating in Miss Tourism Africa 2024
Countries Represented
Alison Mary Akello
Uganda
Various Contestants
Kenya, Tanzania, Chad, Benin, Malawi, Namibia, Eritrea, Equatorial Guinea, Liberia, Ghana, Togo, Botswana, Zambia, Mozambique, Mauritius, Nigeria, Cote D’Ivoire, Cameroon