Ugandan model and fitness geek Stephen Sunday couldn’t stop smiling the moment he was crowned Mr Africa International 2024 during a red-carpet event at Mamba Point, Freetown in Sierra Leone on Sunday night.
Competing for the fourth consecutive time and winning the Body of Africa category in 2023, Sunday felt 2024 would be his moment for the ultimate accolade—a dream that came true.
The Frankfurt-based Sunday beat nine other finalists, including fellow Ugandan Denis Wafula and eventual first runner-up Daniel Olatunji of Nigeria to become the 12th champion of this international male pageant organised by London-based House of Twitch.
The annual event involves a worldwide search for the most adorable African man in the world. You don’t know what that means to the man who boasts as “the King of Abs” for his well-defined abdominal muscles.
“It’s a dream come true. I’ve worked so hard for this moment. Representing Uganda and Africa has always been my passion, and today, I feel I’ve made my country proud. This victory is not just for me; it’s for every African who dares to dream big,” Sunday said post-contest.
The footballer-cum-bodybuilder looked back to a year of relentless efforts, self-funded preparations, and unshakable determination en route to his crowning moment. Without a coach, manager, or sponsor, he worked hard to excel in all aspects of the competition: physical fitness, confidence, intellect, and the ability to answer challenging questions.
“It wasn’t easy. This journey has tested my physical and mental strength, but my love for Uganda and Africa kept me going,” Sunday said, a reminder of how passion and determination moves mountains.
Taking over from Nigerian TikTok influencer Eric Osaze, aka Rickie Mannie, Sunday is the third winner from East Africa following Rwanda’s Jean de Dieu Ntabanganyimana in 2017 and Tanzania’s Calisah Abdulhamid in 2018. The crown comes with cash prizes and contracts with renowned modelling agencies, including House of Twitch. But to Sunday, the victory transcends personal achievement. “This platform is bigger than me. It’s about showcasing the best of Africa to the world and inspiring young Africans to dream big, break barriers, and unite across borders,” he said, emphasising the desire to empower more Ugandans and Africans to embrace healthier lifestyles and pursue their dreams no matter the odds.
