President Mnangagwa Hails Kirsty Coventry’s Historic IOC Election
By Tinashe Mukori
President Emmerson Mnangagwa led the nation in celebrating the historic election of Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture, Hon. Dr. Kirsty Coventry, as President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Speaking at a banquet dinner held at State House this evening , he described her victory as a moment of immense pride for Zimbabwe, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the African continent as a whole.
The President congratulated Coventry on her remarkable achievement, emphasizing that her election as the first woman and first African to hold the esteemed position signified Africa’s readiness to lead on the global stage. He highlighted that her success was not only a personal triumph but also a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes and young leaders across the continent.
Reflecting on her illustrious sporting career, President Mnangagwa acknowledged Coventry’s legacy as a record-breaking athlete, noting that with five world records to her name, she had once again proven her ability to defy limits. He extended his gratitude to her parents, Rob and Lyn Coventry, as well as her husband, Tyrone Seward, for their unwavering support in shaping her path to success. He urged parents and guardians to continue nurturing and encouraging young athletes to pursue their dreams in various sporting disciplines.
The President praised Coventry’s leadership in Zimbabwean sports administration, crediting her with notable achievements during her tenure as Minister. Under her stewardship, the national netball team, the Gems, qualified twice for the Netball World Cup, the Warriors secured a place in the Africa Cup of Nations, and the men’s rugby team clinched the African Championship. The Zimbabwean cricket teams also flourished, with the country successfully hosting international tournaments, including the ICC T20 World Cup Qualifiers in 2023.
Recognizing her efforts in sports governance, President Mnangagwa lauded Coventry for advocating inclusivity, professionalism, and integrity in sports administration. He commended her role in ensuring that Zimbabwean sports administrators assumed leadership positions at regional and international levels. Additionally, he acknowledged her initiatives in constructing multi-purpose sporting facilities in disadvantaged communities, aligning with the government’s commitment to equitable development.
President Mnangagwa emphasized that Coventry’s extensive experience in sports, governance, and public service had prepared her well for the demands of her new role at the helm of the IOC. He expressed confidence that she would use her platform to champion the interests of young athletes, particularly from the developing world and Africa.
In his concluding remarks, the President reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s unwavering support for Coventry, declaring her success a national and continental milestone. He encouraged her to uphold the values of excellence, fair play, and unity as she embarked on her new journey.
“As your President, and indeed as fellow Zimbabweans and Africans, we are proud of you,” he stated. “Your success is our success, and we honor you as a beacon of inspiration and a symbol of national and continental pride.”
With the nation rallying behind her, Kirsty Coventry now stands ready to lead the global Olympic movement, carrying with her the hopes and aspirations of Zimbabwe and Africa.
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