The ambassador of China to South Africa, Wu Peng, has joined a growing number of voices celebrating Zimbabwean swimming legend Dr Kirsty Coventry following her historic election as the first African and female president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Coventry, a two-time Olympic gold medallist, will officially assume her new role in June, based at the IOC headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland. Her appointment prompted her resignation from her position as Zimbabwe’s Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture.
At just 41 years old, Coventry is not only breaking barriers as the first woman and African to lead the IOC but also the youngest person ever to hold the position, according to a recent report by IOL News.
Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Ambassador Wu Peng described Coventry’s election as a major milestone for Africa, expressing his admiration for the achievement.
“Glad to learn that Kirsty Coventry has been elected the first African and female president of the International Olympic Committee. Congratulations for making history! This is surely a proud moment for Africa and the world of sport,” he stated.
Meanwhile, South African Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie also commended Coventry’s election, describing it as a moment of joy and anticipation for global sports leadership.
McKenzie emphasised that Coventry’s rise to the top position in international sports governance represents a positive shift in how global sports administration is evolving.
“We must recognise the contributions of the outgoing IOC President, Dr. Thomas Bach, who welcomed us with great respect during our visit to Olympic House last year,” McKenzie said.
“Knowing that leadership is now transitioning to someone as accomplished and outspoken as Kirsty Coventry gives us hope for the future of world sport especially for Africa and the Global South.”
Coventry’s appointment marks a new era for global sports governance, with expectations that her leadership will bring greater inclusivity and opportunities for emerging sporting nations.
