Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa has congratulated Sports Minister Kirsty Coventry on her historic election as the 10th president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Coventry, a former swimmer and two-time Olympic gold medalist, made history by becoming the first woman and first African to hold the prestigious position.

In his congratulatory message on X, President Mnangagwa praised Coventry’s achievement, saying: “Congratulations to our own Kirsty Coventry on her historic election as the first female and first African President of the IOC.

A proud achievement for Zimbabwe and the continent! Wishing her the greatest of success.”

Coventry, who secured 49 votes out of 97 in the first round, will replace Thomas Bach, who has led the IOC since 2013.

At 41, she is also the youngest president in the IOC’s 130-year history.

As the 10th person to hold the highest office in sport, Coventry will serve for at least eight years.

She has pledged to modernise, promote sustainability, and empower athletes during her tenure.

New Ziana