Online Reporter
Veronica Gwaze
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE opulence at the Rainbow Towers Hotel provided just the suitable location, with its decoration perfectly befitting the heartfelt moments it hosted on Tuesday night in honour of Kirsty Coventry.
It was a night of glitz and glamour as Zimbabweans from across the divide, including those from the diplomatic community and the global sporting family, converged to celebrate Coventry and her historic rise to become International Olympic Committee president.
The former Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Minister ascended to the prestigious post in March, becoming the first African and first female president of the IOC.
Speaking at the celebratory banquet, Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Monica Mutsvangwa described Coventry as a transformational leader in sport.
Her achievement, she said, is a defining moment for Zimbabwe and the African continent.
“Based on the seven years that I have worked with Coventry, I did not think twice about hosting something like this because you deserve it,” Mutsvangwa said.
“She has broken the gender barriers . . . in ministry, she was like my daughter and would consult on many issues.
“She was coming in as a technical person into the Cabinet, I was a politician, so she was clever and would always say, what do you think, Monica? Can we bring this one on board?
“It is with immense pride, profound joy, and deep national honour that we gather here this evening to celebrate a moment of monumental significance.”
Coventry was in attendance at the event, together with her mother Lyn, various women’s organisations and international diplomats.
Mutsvangwa said Coventry’s achievement is not a personal achievement but also a powerful, symbolic, and resounding triumph for Zimbabwe and Africa.
“This is a proud moment,” she noted.
“Not just for sport but for gender equality and national progress.
“This comes with a lot of discipline, dedication, and commitment, so we are proud of our own.
“Coventry’s journey is nothing short of inspirational, having started her sporting career as a young girl from Convent.
“When we said we wanted to do this thing, we did not have much in terms of resources, but these people here and the private sector made it possible.
“Everybody wanted this to be a success because she is not only one of Africa’s most decorated Olympians but also a shining example of the excellent accomplishments that women can achieve.”
Coventry’s high ascendance also speaks volumes about talent identification.
Mutsvangwa hailed President Mnangagwa for identifying potential and appointing Coventry to the post of Sports Minister. The Cabinet appointment gave Coventry an opportunity to cultivate her leadership qualities.
“His move to appoint Coventry was a testament and commitment to gender equality and women empowerment.
“When he saw the talent in her, he did not hesitate to give her that job, so she is a source of pride for our President,” added Mutsvangwa.
“When Coventry came back from campaigns, the first thing the President said was, “Coventry, tell us . . . this is one of his big successes”.
“We take pride in this kind of inspiration and call upon young women to learn and understand that when you have commitment, only the sky is the limit.”
Sports and Recreation Commission director-general, Eltah Nengomasha, was also in attendance and noted that Coventry’s achievement has positioned Zimbabwe competitively on the global landscape.
“We are confident that the IOC is in safe hands, you will exude the same passion, excellence, and commitment that you did when you were leading our sports sector,” Nengomasha said.
“As you embark on this new chapter, know that you leave behind an inspired nation and a sporting community that has been poised for continued success.”
Business Women of Zimbabwe representative Sue Peters paid tribute to Coventry for shattering the glass ceiling in sport and across fields.
Peters said Coventry has a record of being the first in most of her achievements.
“She holds a lot of “first” titles; she holds seven Olympic medals to be Africa’s most decorated Olympian, the first in a lot of achievements in regional sport, and the first athlete to be appointed Minister.
“Yet with all these achievements, she never stopped, which is how she ended up at the most prestigious global stage, as IOC president.
“She has made us proud, beyond measure, by raising the Zimbabwean flag high and putting our continent on the world stage.
“Coventry, you have inspired us to work harder in our different fields, and we wish you well as you go to Athens, represent us well out there.”
Coventry was elated by the recognition.
“The Mutsvangwas took me under their wing and mentored me a lot when I became minister and I am grateful we are still here together, and this is where their efforts took me. I cannot say enough on how grateful I am for the support that all of you and the entire Zimbabwe have shown me in my entire journey.
“I will always be a proud Zimbabwean, and as I embark on this new journey, Zimbabwe remains my home.”
