Mr Ugly 'William Masvinu' retains his title

William Masvinu shrugged off stiff competition from 11 other finalists to retain his Mr Ugly Harare title at a well-attended show held in Harare on Friday night.

The 39-year-old, who does not own a cellphone and earns a living as a tout at Mbare Musika, was a clear crowd favourite with Benny



Chakanyuka being crowned the first prince and Funny Musekiwa the second prince.

Mr David Machona, the pageant's national co-ordinator, disclosed that the winners' packages will be announced this week.

"We are still in the process of finalising the package and we will be handing over the prizes this week. However, all our contestants went away with something on the night with Masvinu going home with groceries as well as an undertaking by one of our sponsors to pay school fees for one of his children.

"As organisers of the pageant we are happy with how the Harare provincial finals panned out and we are hoping for more success as we move to other provinces before finally hosting the national finals," he said.

In an interview yesterday, Masvinu expressed delight at his latest triumph and vowed to continue his dominance when he competes in the national finals that are set for later this year.

"I think this is a gift from God. I am happy with the results and I hope if given the money I will be able to change my life for the better. Winning the competition has lessened my burden especially considering that one of my children's fees will be paid for the whole year," said Masvinu.

Masvinu's wife Alice Chabhanga also expressed joy.

"We are happy that the man of the house won the competition and we hope that the organisers will keep their word and give us what is due to us. I will continue supporting him because he is my husband," she said.