09 Nov 2015

Peelo Mookodi of Ramotswa was overcome by tears of joy when she was crowned Miss Africa Botswana 2015 during the Saturday (October 7) pageant at Fairgrounds Holdings.

The chocolate complexion lady, who bears a true reflection of a proudly African  also managed to scoop the viewers’ choice award during pre-judging excellently and eloquently answered the question which remarked on the problems of xenophobia in Africa and how it could be eliminated.

She said xenophobia arises when one person felt that they do not need their neighbor in the land.

“This comes about when us Africans fail to accept each other for who we are, and we feel that other people are taking our jobs and places in society. If you as a person know and are equipped enough for the job that you want, then I believe you should be skilled enough to fill that space without threat from another place,” she said.    

The 21 year old, Business Administration UB student who was styled on a diamond crown to the tune of P100 000 made by Phatsima jewellery, is to receive a more than P100 000 prize money.

She said Miss Africa was about uniting and rebranding  Africa and therefore there was no better platform, adding that going forward, they could invite other countries because she believed that unity could bring a better Africa, hence the slogan, “united we stand, divided we fall”.   

Peelo grasped her hands together in surprise as she was presented with the crown by the Mayor of Gaborone, Kagiso Thutlwe, in full view of the Minister of Youth Sport and Culture, Thapelo Olopeng, King Seeiso from Lesotho, and delegates from different countries. 

She sat in the winner's throne as the 2015 champion with the diamond glittering crown on her head at the finale which was made grander by Yvonne Chaka Chaka and The soil.

Also crowned on the night were first princess Modioki Gaborone, receiving a prize of slightly more than P50 000 and Uua Murangi, receiving a prize of slightly above P25 000. All the winners are to receive jewelries and an all-expenses paid weekend at Kasane. Ends