Miss Burundi, Alida Gloria Kaneza is in the country to attend the Miss East Africa Rwandan chapter contest, today at Serena hotel.

The 19-year-old, who traveled with her manager, currently holds the Miss East Africa 2008 title.

In her speech, during the final press conference on Thursday at Serena hotel, Kaneza encouraged Rwandan contestants to participate effectively although it’s the first time Rwanda is in the competition.

"Be confident and use various tactics on stage, but a cool smile is very important,” Kaneza said.

Contestants have gone through a daily training for a week at Royale Villas hotel, in Nyarutarama to prepare for today’s event.

According to Chris Gakwaya, CEO Rwanda Events, participants have all what it takes to perform best in the contest.

"I am convinced for the best performance considering the training our contestant went through,” Gakwaya said.

Speaking on behalf of the beauty contestants, Miss Kigali Cynthia Akazuba, who is also contesting for Miss East Africa, said that the ladies are prepared for today’s event, after a long week-training.

The 20-year-old, Akazuba added that, even though she doesn’t win the contests, she will continue to advocate for children’s rights, and support street children and orphans to lead a decent life.

High ranking officials from Rena a Tanzania based company organizing Miss East Africa 2010 contest will also attend the event.

Speaking to journalists, the Miss East Africa pageant’s chief organiser Rena Callist said that Rwanda stands a chance to hold the Miss East Africa 2010 event, but today’s event will also determine the potential.

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