US Visa Restrictions Leave African Miss Universe Contestants Out of Pageant

Two African beauty queens have been forced to withdraw from the 2026 Miss Universe competition in Puerto Rico because of United States visa restrictions, while two others are still facing uncertainty over their participation.

The affected countries are Zambia, the Republic of Congo, Zimbabwe and South Sudan. The restrictions, introduced under US President Donald Trump’s administration, have created difficulties for contestants hoping to represent their countries at the international event.

Zambia’s representative, Mubanga Pamela Hatyoka, and the Republic of Congo’s contestant, Georgina Kambongo, won' get to participate in the international event after failing to meet the required conditions for their travel approval.

Miss Universe Zambia organisers expressed disappointment over Hatyoka’s withdrawal, saying she had put in so much effort to represent her country and deserved the opportunity to do so. They emphasized that the situation arose from the US travel restrictions rather than personal or organisational problems.

Kambongo’s withdrawal is also significant because she made history as the Republic of Congo’s first representative at Miss Universe. Organisers in the country said her inability to travel was directly linked to the American restrictions.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe’s representative, Roseanna Hall, is still hopeful of participating. In a social media post, she said visa challenges had delayed her journey but insisted that she was not quiting after months of preparation.

South Sudan’s representative, Adut Deng, also faces uncertainty. Her organisers said they had spent months trying to secure the necessary travel documents and approvals. They emphasised that South Sudan deserved to be represented on the international level.

The US restrictions affect several African countries, with different levels of entry limitations. These restrictions can prevent individuals from obtaining the visas required to attend international events, even when they have been officially selected to participate.

The situation highlights how immigration policies can affect opportunities beyond tourism and business. International competitions and events such as Miss Universe provide contestants with medium to promote their countries, showcase their cultures and build global connections.

The 75th Miss Universe competition is expected to attract up to 120 contestants. Preparatory activities are already underway in Puerto Rico, with the national costume competition which will hold on November 21 and the winner expected to be crowned on November 24.

For the affected contestants, the visa restrictions have turned months of preparation into doubt and disappointment.