Source: The Herald – Breaking news.
Minister Kirsty Coventry 
Ivan Zhakata, Herald Correspondent
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has congratulated Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Minister Kirsty Coventry on her historic election as International Olympic Committee (IOC) president.
In a statement yesterday, President Mnangagwa said Minister Coventry has made Africa proud by becoming the first African to hold the position in the 131-year history of the IOC.
“Thursday 20th March, 2025, will remain etched in the annals of history, both in Zimbabwe and across the entire world, as one of our own, Minister of Sport, Arts and Recreation, Honourable Kirsty Coventry, was elected the International Olympic Committee (IOC) president, garnering 49 votes out of a possible 97,” he said.
“This incredible win comes iced with the shattering of three records, all broken at the same time. Kirsty Coventry made Africa proud by becoming the first African person to hold the position in the 131-year history of the sports body.
“In addition, she becomes the first woman and the youngest person to achieve this feat! For Zimbabwe, this achievement, huge and historic as it is, comes as no surprise.”
President Mnangagwa said the country had witnessed Minister Coventry’s meteoric rise in the world of sport from being a multiple Olympic champion to a leader.
“Your approach to sport has always been marked by intense passion, focus and fierce determination, singling you out as a go-getter who accepts no defeat,” he said.
“Today, with the flag of Zimbabwe flying high up, I am proud to give you well-deserved congratulations. You have lifted your country high. In centuries to come, whenever the history of the IOC is spoken about or written down, Zimbabwe will be mentioned as having produced the first woman president; the first African president and the youngest president.
“Even as you tackle the huge challenges that lie ahead in the new job, I am very confident that you will, undoubtedly, hold your own. You will be no push over and you will do justice to the task that awaits.
“I wish you all the best, and success in your tenure as the International Olympic Committee president. Nhasi ndezveduwo! Zimbabwe is proud of you. Well done Kirsty Coventry!”.
Minister Coventry, a seven-time Olympic swimming medallist and former world record-holder, has been a key figure in Zimbabwe’s sports administration.
Her new role as IOC president is expected to bring fresh perspectives and stronger African representation in global sports governance.
The news of Minister Coventry’s election has been met with celebrations across Zimbabwe, with athletes, officials and citizens applauding her for breaking barriers on the international stage.
Many view her presidency as a milestone in promoting inclusivity, athlete welfare and increased opportunities for African nations within the Olympic movement.
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