Rwanda’s reigning Mister Elegancy 2018, Divic Nshongore Niyirora, has been officially nominated among the contestants seeking to become this year’s Mister Africa International.

He will be looking to succeed current crown holder Jean de Dieu Ntabanganyimana, who won it in last year’s pageant in Lagos, Nigeria.

"Just in! Glad to announce Rwanda will be represented by winner of Mister Elegancy Rwanda 2018. Welcome to the Mister International Africa family!” reads the pageant instagram statement.

The confirmation to participate at the forthcoming contest edition came too late after organisers of Miss and Mister Elegancy Rwanda 2018 delayed to pay the registration fees, worth Euros 200, which Niyirora will spend on food, fashion and accommodation during his stay in Nigeria.

"There were some delays in confirming me to take part in the contest but I am glad that I was finally nominated. It is an opportunity that I have to explore with determination and I have confidence that I will win it,” Niyirora said.

Niyirora added that he has been in touch with reigning Mister Africa International Jay Rwanda and reveals that he has been learning a lot from him before jetting out for the contest.

"He [Jay Rwanda] has been sharing with me different secrets for a couple of days and I have paid close attention to his advice, from physical fitness and runway tips to public speaking and more techniques that are key to winning the crown. I will be going to Lagos with one mission, which is being the pageant winner, "he added.

Niyirora will fly to Lagos, on November, a day before the boost camp.

A total of 20 countries will be represented in this year’s edition.

The winner of Mister Africa International 2018 will be announced on December 2

This will be the second time Nigeria will be hosting the event in the pageant’s seven year history.

The winner will partner with several communities and travel the world promoting youth empowerment through innovation, education and health initiatives.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw