Uganda has officially crowned its first-ever representative for the Miss Universe stage.
Twenty-nine-year-old international fashion model, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate Mitchelle Daka emerged victorious at the inaugural Miss Universe Uganda 2026 pageant, held at the Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala. Representing Budaka District, Daka impressed the judges with standout performances in the swimwear, evening gown, and final question-and-answer segments, securing the historic title.
Her victory earned her a cash prize of Shs24 million, a brand-new vehicle, and the honour of becoming the first woman to represent Uganda at the Miss Universe competition.
Daka holds a degree in Business Administration and has spent the past decade building an international modelling career across Africa and the Middle East. Beyond the runway, she is the founder of Figures The Brand, a sustainable activewear label, and hosts a podcast dedicated to emotional well-being and personal growth, reflecting her passion for mental health advocacy.
Throughout the competition, Daka consistently impressed the judges and also claimed two subsidiary awards: Face of Miss Universe Uganda and Multimedia Queen, further cementing her status as one of the pageant’s standout contestants.
The grand finale featured contestants from across the country competing for the historic crown. Nineteen-year-old model Kimberly Jael Aremo Acio, representing Kole District, finished as the first runner-up while also taking home the People’s Choice and Wellness Queen awards. Bridget Katungi placed as second runner-up, with Sureya Umeima and Jemimah Mpoza rounding out the top five.
With her victory, Mitchelle Daka will now carry Uganda’s hopes onto the global Miss Universe stage, marking a significant milestone in the country’s pageant history.
