Catherine Makaya replaces Thabiso Phiri as Miss Zimbabwe

Catherine Makaya has been crowned as the new Miss Zimbabwe 2014 and replaces Thabiso Phiri, who resigned barely a month into her reign.

Catherine beat three other contestants; Maita Kainga, Melissa Chikerema and Rairo Gunguwo to claim the coveted crown.

The four, who were part of the girls who made it into the top eight, went through the ramp, showcasing various wears in ethnic, swim and evening wear.

They also went through a question session and it was Catherine who impressed the judges.

The new queen said she is thrilled to be chosen as the new Miss Zimbabwe, while her predecessor, Thabiso said she resigned on her on volition.

Miss Zimbabwe Trust chairperson, Mrs Marry Chiwenga said it was necessary for the trust to select a new queen in light of the decision by Thabiso to relinquish the title.

Catherine will now represent Zimbabwe at the Miss World pageant to be held in London in December this year.

Thabiso becomes the second beauty queen to step down before serving a full term after Linda van Beek, who resigned midway through her reign due to pregnancy.