Staff Reporter
President Mnangagwa has commended outgoing Sports Minister Dr Kirsty Coventry for her historic election as the first African and first female president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), calling her victory a testament that "Africa is ready to lead."
Speaking at a banquet held in her honour at State House yesterday, President Mnangagwa lauded Dr Coventry’s achievements, both as an athlete and as a government official, saying her rise to the top of global sports administration reflects Zimbabwe’s resilience and determination.
“This election of the first-ever woman and a candidate from Africa is indeed a testament that ‘Africa is ready to lead,’ as you amply declared after your triumph. The victory of Honourable Coventry is not only a source of inspiration and pride for Zimbabwe but for the SADC region and Africa as a whole," President Mnangagwa said.
He described Dr Coventry as “a national treasure” who has broken records throughout her life, first as a world-class swimmer and now as an administrator.
“With five world records to her name, breaking records is in her nature; she has done it again,” he remarked.
President Mnangagwa credited Dr Coventry’s leadership with helping Zimbabwe achieve key milestones in sports, highlighting the national teams’ international successes during her tenure as Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture.
“Since her tenure, the Zimbabwe Senior Netball team, the Gems, qualified for the Netball World Cup on two occasions, the National Soccer Team, the Warriors, qualified for AFCON, and the men’s Rugby Team scooped the African Championship, among others,” he stated.
He also acknowledged improvements in cricket administration, noting that Zimbabwe now hosts both Test and One Day International (ODI) matches more frequently, with the country successfully hosting the ICC T20 World Cup Qualifiers in 2023.
Beyond professional sports, President Mnangagwa highlighted Dr Coventry’s role in grassroots sports development, citing her efforts to construct multi-purpose sporting facilities in marginalised areas, such as Chambuta, Rafamoyo, Mabhikwa, and Karigamombe.
“These projects have encouraged inclusivity in sports and ensured that young boys and girls across the country access opportunities to develop and nurture their God-given talents,” Mnangagwa said.
President Mnangagwa urged Dr Coventry to use her experience to advocate for athletes from developing nations.
“I exhort you, Honourable Coventry, to draw from those insights to advocate and advance the cause of the young athletes from the developing world and Africa, in particular. Sport has the ability to empower and unite us under a common vision and goal," the President said.
He commended her dedication to good governance, anti-doping initiatives, and athlete welfare, saying her leadership would foster excellence, fairness, and unity in global sports.
“As your President and indeed your fellow countrymen and women, we are proud of you. We believed in you and are confident that, under your stewardship, the Olympic movement will continue to grow,” President Mnangagwa added.
The President assured Dr Coventry that the nation stood behind her, calling her success “a beacon of inspiration and symbol of national and continental pride.”
“Your success is our success, and we honour you. May your vision for global sports bring positive change to athletes and nations across the world,” he said.
As Dr Coventry prepares to assume her new role in Lausanne, Switzerland, on 23 June, Zimbabwe positions itself as a nation with a stake in the future of international sports leadership.
