US Visa Restrictions Keep African Contestants Out of Miss Universe Competition

Two African contestants have withdrawn from this year’s Miss Universe competition in Puerto Rico after failing to obtain United States visas, while two others remain uncertain about their participation because of travel restrictions imposed by the Trump administration.

The affected countries are Zambia, the Republic of Congo, Zimbabwe and South Sudan. The 75th edition of the international beauty competition is scheduled to take place in Puerto Rico this month.

Mubanga Pamela Hatyoka, representing Zambia, and Georgina Kambongo of the Republic of Congo have withdrawn after encountering difficulties securing the necessary travel documents. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe’s Roseanna Hall and South Sudan’s Adut Deng are still awaiting approval.

According to the Associated Press, the United States expanded its travel restrictions last December to include Zambia and Zimbabwe, while maintaining a full suspension of entry for nationals of the Republic of Congo and South Sudan.

The restrictions have attracted public attention because of their impact on the contestants and their respective countries.

Miss Universe Zambia organisers expressed disappointment over Hatyoka’s withdrawal, stating that she had earned her position and deserved the opportunity to represent her country internationally.

Kambongo, who made history as the Republic of Congo’s first Miss Universe representative, also faces missing the competition. Her country’s organisers attributed her inability to travel to the American restrictions.

However, Zimbabwe’s Roseanna Hall remains hopeful. In a social media statement, she expressed determination not to give up despite months of preparation and uncertainty surrounding her visa.

South Sudan’s organisers also expressed concern about Deng’s participation, emphasising the importance of having their country represented on the international stage.

Beyond the beauty competition, the situation raises wider questions about international mobility and equal access to global opportunities. Visa restrictions can affect individuals seeking to participate in cultural events, educational programmes, professional activities and international exchanges.

For the affected contestants, the restrictions represent more than missing a competition. They also mean losing an opportunity to showcase their countries, cultures and achievements before an international audience.

The situation highlights how government travel policies can have consequences beyond immigration, affecting cultural representation and opportunities for individuals from different parts of the world.

The Miss Universe competition is expected to attract up to 120 contestants, with the winner scheduled to be crowned on November 24, 2026.