10 Jun 2025

Francistown will for the first time be the home of this year’s  Miss Universe Botswana pageant billed for August 30.

The pageant’s director, Safie Sekgwa announced the historic move during a press conference in Francistown yesterday that the glitzy event will take place at the Adansonia Hotel which boasts a seating capacity of nearly 6 000. Sekgwa said the monumental decision was a significant step in promoting Francistown as a key destination for investment, tourism and economic growth and that relocating the pageant was made with a vision that extended beyond the realm of beauty.

“We aim to elevate Francistown’s status as an investment hub and a beacon for tourism while positioning Miss Universe Botswana as a pivotal partner in the economic development of our country,” he stated.

The move is expected to harness the city’s strategic location as a gateway to the rest of Africa, ultimately benefiting its economy and bring to life its moniker, the city of all things precious. Sekgwa indicated that the pageant provided a unique opportunity to showcase Botswana’s renowned diamonds, which stood tall against synthetic alternatives.

“Beauty pageants serve not just as competitions, but powerful marketing platforms. By choosing Francistown, we aim to invigorate local economic activities and celebrate our own diamonds, not just the ones mined from the earth, but the beautiful women who serve as their representatives.”

Around 3 000 patrons were expected to attend not only to the pageant but also the burgeoning potential of Francistown itself. Botswana International Trade Centre,Business Services director, Gaorekwe Gaorekwe underscored the economic implications of hosting the Miss Botswana pageant.

“This is more than a beauty contest, it is a catalyst for business and growth,” he said and expressed his delight for Francistown to host such an illustrious event, a chance to raise the city’s profile on a global scale.

He expressed gratitude to Adansonia Hotel for generously providing their facilities without a charge, a testament to their commitment to this landmark occasion. MP for Francistown West, Ignatius Moswaane shared his enthusiasm for the event, reassuring the public that the local leadership was behind it.

The hotel director, Painful Jog promised a spectacular and technologically advanced pageant ensuring that they would exceed expectation. The 10 finalists who were present at the press conference, have already attended a boot camp in Nata and will do two more, prior to the grand finale. ENDS