“Zimbabwe has consistently produced extraordinary talent, and Kirsty is a shining example of that success. Africa is proud of you, Kirsty”

Rugby Africa extends its congratulations to Zimbabwe’s Kirsty Coventry on her historic election as the 10th President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), marking a groundbreaking moment as the first female and African to hold this distinguished position.

Herbert Mensah, President of Rugby Africa, said: “I’ve witnessed openness, honesty and a deep sense of integrity from Kirsty. It was only a matter of time before she ascended to the highest office. I can say without hesitation that Africa salutes you, Kirsty, for being the first African to reach such an honour. Africa needs its heroes and heroines, and it’s moments like this when people like Kirsty rise to the occasion, offering hope to others. Kirsty epitomises the resilience and success of her homeland, Zimbabwe, a country whose people have endured countless hardships. Despite these challenges, Zimbabwe has consistently produced extraordinary talent, and Kirsty is a shining example of that success. Africa is proud of you, Kirsty, and certainly so am I.”

Kirsty Coventry was elected as the 10th IOC President on Thursday, March 20, for an eight-year term. Currently Coventry is serving as an IOC Member and the Minister of Sport, Arts and Recreation in Zimbabwe. A Harare native, President-elect Coventry competed at five different Olympic Games. Between her debut at Sydney 2000 and competing for the final time at Rio 2016, she won seven Olympic medals (two gold, four silver, one bronze), taking gold in the 200m backstroke at Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008. No other African athlete has won more Olympic medals.

Rugby Africa looks forward to working with the new IOC President, confident that her leadership will drive the growth of sports across Africa.