Zimbabwe’s sports minister Kirsty Coventry has been elected the 10th President of the International Olympic Committee making history by becoming the first woman and first African to occupy the position. At 41, Coventry also became the youngest person to hold the role. The Zimbabwean government was quick to congratulate her through the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Nick Mnangwana who posted on his X account. She was chosen in a secret ballot of seven candidates at the 144th IOC Session being held in Costa Navarino, Greece, today 20 March, for an eight-year term of office. Coventry replaces outgoing President Thomas Bach, who was first elected in 2013 and re-elected in 2021. She will assume office on Olympic Day, 23 June. Coventry won seven of Zimbabwe's eight Olympic medals - including gold in the 200m backstroke at both the 2004 and 2008 Games. She described her victory as extraordinary. I am particularly proud to be the first female IOC president, and also the first from Africa,” said Coventry. The young girl who first started swimming in Zimbabwe all those years ago could never have dreamed of this moment. I hope that this vote will be an inspiration to many people. Glass ceilings have been shattered today, and I am fully aware of my responsibilities as a role model. Coventry will succeed Thomas Bach, whose 12-year tenure will officially end on June 23. The President is elected by the IOC Members by secret ballot for a term of eight years.
