African Miss Universe beauty queens in limbo as US visa restrictions bite

Several African Miss Universe contestants may miss this year’s competition in Puerto Rico because of US visa restrictions. Zimbabwe’s Roseanna Hall and South Sudan’s representative were still uncertain about travelling as pre-pageant events began, while Zambia withdrew Pamela Mubanga.

The final is scheduled for 24 November in San Juan. Restrictions introduced on 1 January 2026 affect nationals of 19 countries, suspending or limiting several visa categories; Zambia’s pageant organisation said Mubanga’s situation stemmed from those measures. It said five other African countries faced similar difficulties, but did not name them.