26 Jun 2025

Francistown councillors have expressed gratitude to the Miss Universe organisers for selecting the city as the host for Miss Universe Botswana 2025 competition.

During a full Council meeting on Tuesday, councillors said they were honoured to be hosting such a prestigious event and the possibility of it having a positive impact on the local economy. Selepa Ward councillor Mpho Leladi acknowledged the significance of hosting an event of that magnitude, critical in revitalising the city’s economy. He said that Francistown was well-equipped to host large events due to its substantial population.

Philip Matante Ward councillor, Mairos Muzazwi welcomed the opportunity but raised concerns about the city’s preparedness and urged the mayor to engage with the private sector, to ensure their involvement and contribution towards the event’s success. He emphasised the importance of marketing and advertising the event.

Specially elected councillor, Ishmael Nyare said that while hosting the competition was a positive development, it was crucial to include locals such as makeup artists, performers, and photographers in the event. He stressed the importance of involving Francistown residents in the organising committees, to ensure they benefited.

Presenting before the full council, then pageant’s national director, Safie Sekgwa said Francistown was a strategic location as a major link in Southern Africa, that offered a unique opportunity to promote the country through events like Miss Universe. He pointed out that the city’s geographical advantages and logistical capabilities could be leveraged for regional and international marketing. 

Sekgwa said Miss Universe finale would be live-streamed on their official YouTube channel with over 3.5 billion subscribers, providing a platform to elevate Francistown’s profile. He mentioned that attracting investors to Francistown required showcasing the city’s strengths, including the support of local members of parliament holding ministerial positions in Environment, Tourism, Trade, and Entrepreneurship.

He encouraged the councillors to actively promote Francistown through the Miss Universe platform, suggesting that the event could sell their city.  The councillors’ enthusiasm for the event reflects a collective vision to harness the opportunity presented by Miss Universe 2025 to boost Francistown’s economy and global recognition. ENDS