Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 chief executive, Stanley Mutoya, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the newly-elected International Olympic Committee (IOC) President, Kirsty Coventry, to extend heartfelt congratulations on behalf of the Region 5 Council of Ministers.
The visit marked a moment of pride and inspiration for Southern Africa, as Coventry – a daughter of the region – assumes the highest office in the global Olympic movement.
In her response, Coventry emphasised the importance of robust partnerships between governments and the broader sports movement, particularly within the Southern African context.
She applauded AUSC Region 5 for its longstanding commitment to strategic collaboration, and expressed keen interest in replicating the Region 5 model globally to enhance the delivery of sport.
She further commended the region’s efforts in implementing impactful sport development initiatives, and reaffirmed her commitment to advancing key values including sports integrity, inclusion, and environmental sustainability.
Speaking after the meeting, Mutoya described the engagement as “a profound moment that reflects not only Coventry’s trailblazing leadership, but also the readiness of Africa to shape global sport.”
He noted that the meeting inspired AUSC Region 5 to further strengthen its commitment to development through sport and deepen strategic partnerships across the continent and beyond.
This historic engagement cements the shared vision between AUSC Region 5 and the IOC to harness the transformative power of sport for development, peace, and unity.



