After preliminary contests in the four provinces and Kigali City , 17 belles have been selected to contest for the Miss Rwanda crown.

They have reported in camp for a month's trainings. The countrywide contestants reported shortly after Kigali City chose the best four to join the rest in camp. Winnie Ngamije 22, Fiona Umunyana 24, Rita Uwera 20, and 19-year-old Alice Kayumba were chosen from Kigali ."Those eliminated failed to hit the 1.7 meters mark," the organisers explained. Any body below the 1.7 metres was stopped at the gate as 'who is who' in Kigali dug deep into their pockets to pay for the show which started at 6pm and ended 10pm. Joseph Habineza, Minister of Sports and Culture was guest of honour at the Rwandatel sponsored event. Linda Bihire, the Infrastructure Minister did not miss the occasion which has come after 17 years lull. As they cat walked on a stage decorated with bamboo trees reflecting the beauty of Rwanda 's natural forests, the judges including Eminante Mugabushaka, Jolie Murenzi and Daddy de Maximo were seen smiling from ear to ear. A sign they were impressed with the Kigali group.

One of the judges was heard saying the contestants were confident as they answered questions with ease.