Cynthia Akazuba who currently holds the Miss Kigali title, was on Saturday crowned Miss East Africa Rwanda Chapter-2009, after beating 11 contestants in a stiff competition.

On top of the crown, Akazuba walked away with a cash prize of Rwf 1m in the pageant that took place in Rwanda, for the first time.

"I am grateful to announce that number 16, Cynthia Akazuba is Miss East Africa Rwanda Chapter 2009,” chief judge and organizer of Miss East Africa, Rena Callist announced.

In a subsequent interview with The New Times, Akazuba could not hold back her  excitement.

"I am really grateful and excited to be crowned the first ever Miss East Africa Rwanda chapter,” she said.

Annet Mahoro, a student at the National University of Rwanda (NUR) was first runner-up, walking away with Rwf 500,000.

Both Akazuba and Mahoro will represent Rwanda next month at a regional beauty pageant, that will bring together winners representing the East African Partner States, in Tanzania, Dar es Salaam.

The State Minister for Minerals and Natural Resources, Vincent Karega who officiated at the event appreciated and encouraged the youth to be creative pointing out musicians who graced the event.

"Today’s event is encouraging and it proves the creativity our youth have. For example the musicians who have also graced this event; keep-up the spirit,” Karega said.

Meanwhile, Margaret Uwera, Miss Rwanda Tourism University College (RTUC) was      crowned Miss Photogenic, because of her creative dressing.

She also walked away with an invitation to attend Miss East Africa beauty contest and a trip to mountain Kilimanjaro to be catered for by Rena Events.

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