By Netshakhuma Muleya
MISS Eco-Zimbabwe is set to take place in Beitbridge on November 20, bringing together 15 contestants from 10 provinces and cities across Zimbabwe.
The event follows the 2025 edition, which was hosted in Harare and won by the reigning Miss Eco-Zimbabwe, Pretty Ndlovu.
The pageant aims to provide a platform for self-expression, confidence and storytelling through fashion while celebrating women’s achievements and inspiring the girl child.
This year’s edition features contestants representing different parts of the country, including Andile Matutu (Miss Beitbridge 2025), Kate Muchada (Mashonaland Central), Onesimo Nkomo (Bulawayo), Elisa Siziba (Miss Beitbridge first runner-up), Princess Furukiya (Mashonaland East) and Sharai Tandare (Masvingo).
Other contestants are Petronella Phiri (Gweru), Agape Mandizvida (Harare), Leanet Mapungu (Matabeleland North), Maxine Tasara (Midlands), Ivy Mahwani (Filabusi), Moreblessing Ndlovu (Matabeleland South), Tinotenda Gutwi (Mutare) and Hadassar Ndari (Matabeleland West).
As preparations continue, the contestants are expected to participate in an online People’s Choice voting competition ahead of the main event.
At the conclusion of the pageant, three contestants will be crowned and proceed to represent Zimbabwe in Egypt in 2027.
Speaking about the event, Miss Eco-Zimbabwe director Chris Ncube said the contestants were ready for the competition.
“The train has just begun moving, there is no holding back as the girls from all towns and cities are geared for the contest,” he said.
“It’s really an honour hosting Miss Eco-Zimbabwe in Beitbridge as it is a national event.”
“We look forward to seeing Beitbridge turn out in large numbers as the girls represent where they come from and express confidence within themselves,” he said.
Speaking to Ziyah News Network, reigning Miss Eco-Zimbabwe Pretty Ndlovu described winning the 2025 edition as an emotional and humbling experience.
“Winning the 2025 edition was an absolute whirlwind of emotions and a humbling moment,” she said.
“Hearing my name announced felt like a beautiful validation of all the hard work, late nights, and dedication I put preparing for the contest.”
Reflecting on this year’s competition, Ndlovu said she expected to see passionate and purpose-driven contestants as the platform continues to grow.
“This year’s edition, I expect to see an incredibly fierce, passionate, purpose-driven group of women as the Miss Eco platform grows stronger every year,” she said.
She said, she hopes the contestants demonstrate intelligence, confidence and innovative ideas for environmental advocacy.
She also said, representation of Zimbabwe in Egypt was one of the greatest honours of her life.
“My experience in Egypt representing the global stage, carrying the name ‘Zimbabwe’ across my chest, was the greatest honour of my life,” she said.
She wished the 2026 contestants well, encouraging them to showcase Zimbabwe’s culture and talent while promoting meaningful environmental initiatives.
“Hence, I wish all the best to the 2026 participants as it is time for them to make history, show the world our rich culture and prove that Zimbabwe is a powerhouse of talent and purpose,” Ndlovu said.
As the November 20 event approaches, Beitbridge is preparing to host a national pageant celebrating beauty, cultural representation, confidence and environmental awareness.