President Mnangagwa Lists Kirsty Coventry’s Achievements as Sports Minister
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has praised Kirsty Coventry for her contributions as Zimbabwe’s Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture, highlighting key achievements during her tenure.
Speaking at a state banquet held at State House to celebrate her election as the next president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Mnangagwa detailed how Coventry’s leadership had a positive impact on Zimbabwean sports.
Coventry was elected as the 10th president of the IOC on March 20 in Costa, Greece, marking a historic moment in international sports governance. She became the youngest, first female, and first African to ever hold the prestigious position, securing exactly 49 votes—the majority required—from the 97 ballots cast.
During her time as minister, Zimbabwe saw notable sporting achievements, including national teams qualifying for major tournaments and the country hosting regional and international competitions.
President Mnangagwa highlighted several milestones, stating:
“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. The Zimbabwe Chevrons and the Lady Chevrons alike have become more competitive following the improved administration of Cricket. We now host both Test and One-Day International Games on a more frequent basis. The highlight of which was the ICC T20 World Cup Qualifiers in 2023. The leadership of Honourable Coventry has, therefore, been instrumental to Zimbabwe successfully hosting various regional and international sporting events, further elevating our country’s reputation as a favourable global sporting destination.”
Also read: President Mnangagwa Retires Army Commander Anselem Sanyatwe, Appoints Him New Sports Minister
Sanyatwe Appointed as Zimbabwe’s New Sports Minister
President Mnangagwa recently retired Lieutenant General Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe as Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) Commander and appointed him the new Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture.
Sanyatwe replaces Kirsty Coventry, who recently stepped down to take up her new role as International Olympic Committee (IOC) president.
Chris Matambanadzo
Coming from a long line of television and radio personalities, it was only natural for Chris Matambanadzo to venture into the media space. Chris is an avid reader who fancies himself a philosopher and poet. He is passionate about anime, music and movies.