Ellina Mhlanga, Zimpapers Sports Hub SPORT, Recreation, Arts and Culture Minister Kirsty Coventry’s historic election as the 10th International Olympic Committee president has captured the imagination of the world and more tributes and congratulatory messages poured as her triumph was celebrated across the globe. Coventry, on Thursday etched her name in the history books following a landslide win that saw her become the first female and first African to become the IOC president. Seasoned administrator and former IOC Director of International Cooperation and Development (2003-14), Tommy Sithole saluted Coventry’s monumental feat. “Epic . . . it’s the stuff that history is made of. A first in everything. “Even the detractors had to admit the folly of their negative campaigning after the scale of her victory was made public. “It’s great for our country. Today we shine. Let’s keep it that way,” Sithole said. Posting on his X handle former Cote d’Ivoire captain and ex-Chelsea star forward Didier Drogba congratulated Coventry on her historic feat: “Congratulations to @KirstyCoventry for being the first woman and African president of the IOC.” The country’s biggest sports association ZIFA joined in to congratulate Coventry on her new role. ZIFA president Nqobile Magwizi noted, that Coventry’s remarkable achievement not only cements her legacy as a global sporting icon, but also brings immense pride to Zimbabwe as she becomes the first female president in the 130-year history of the IOC. Magwizi said Coventry’s victory is a testament to Zimbabwe’s excellence in sport and leadership: “Kirsty Coventry’s election as IOC President is a moment of immense pride for Zimbabwe and Africa. “Her unwavering dedication, leadership, and passion for sport have inspired generations, and we have no doubt she will steer the Olympic movement to even greater heights. “This is a victory for Zimbabwean sport and a beacon of hope for young athletes across the continent. “Congratulations, Honourable Minister – the whole nation celebrates with you!” added Magwizi. The World Karate Federation (WKF) president Antonio Espinós also sent his congratulatory message. “On behalf of the World Karate Federation, I extend my warmest congratulations on your election as president of the International Olympic Committee. “Your leadership comes at a pivotal time – and the hundreds of millions of karate athletes and followers around the world look forward to your vision guiding the Olympic Movement into a new era of global engagement, inclusivity and innovation. “As a sport enjoyed – and practiced – by so many young boys and girls equally, we commend your commitment to future generations. “Karate shares the fundamental values of Olympism. Excellence, friendship, and respect are instilled in millions of practitioners worldwide.” Sports Leaders Institute of Zimbabwe president Russel Mhiribidi hailed the Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Minister. “As the Sports Leaders Institute of Zimbabwe, we are elated by the election of Honourable Kirsty Coventry as the incoming president for the International Olympic Committee. “We are very proud first as Zimbabwe and then very proud as a continent, as Africa. “It’s the first time that we have one of us being president of IOC and that says a lot about our sport administration acumen as sports leaders in this country,” Mhiribidi said. Zimbabwe National Karate Federation president Joe Rugwete noted that the country took great pride in Coventry’s election. “As the President of the Zimbabwe National Karate Federation, I am proud to congratulate our esteemed Minister of Sport, Honourable Kirsty Coventry, on her historic election as president of the IOC. “We are confident that under Kirsty’s leadership, the IOC will continue to grow and evolve, creating new opportunities for sports like karate to thrive on the world’s biggest stage. “We look forward to supporting her vision and working together to strengthen the impact of the Olympic Movement for future generations,” said Rugwete. Posting on Facebook, her former school Dominican Convent High School expressed their excitement. “We are absolutely delighted and immensely proud to celebrate the remarkable achievement of our distinguished alumna, Kirsty Coventry, on her historic election as the first female president of the International Olympic Committee and the second-youngest in its esteemed history. “May the Convent values of integrity and excellence guide her as she takes on this prestigious role. “May she continue to shine brilliantly on the global stage, leaving an indelible mark on the world sports and beyond.” National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe said Coventry’s election, brings renewed hope and energy for Africa. “Your appointment is not only a monumental achievement for Zimbabwe, but also a powerful beacon of inspiration to athletes, women, and leaders across the world. “As Zimbabweans, we are immensely proud to witness one of our own ascend to the pinnacle of global sport administration. “This milestone brings renewed hope and energy to the future of sport, especially for Africa, as it symbolises the rising voice of a continent ready to contribute, innovate, and lead on the world stage. “For young athletes in the dusty tracks of our communities to the highest arenas of international sport, your story will forever echo that no dream is too big, no barrier too great,” NAAZ president Tendai Tagara said. Hockey Association of Zimbabwe paid their tribute via their Facebook page: “The Hockey Association of Zimbabwe extends its warmest congratulations to our esteemed Sports Minister, Dr Kirsty Coventry, on her historic election as the new president of the International Olympic Committee! “At just 41 years old, this legendary swimmer and two-time Olympic gold medallist has made history by becoming the first woman and the first African, to hold this prestigious role. “Her dedication and passion for sports will surely inspire countless athletes around the world. “We are so proud of you, Kirsty!” The Northern Region Soccer League and the Premier Soccer League weighed in with their congratulatory messages. “The Northern Region Soccer League would like to congratulate the Honourable Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Kirsty Coventry, on her historic election as the 10th president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC),” read the NRSL statement. Acting PSL chief executive Rodwell Thabe also released his league’s message. “The Premier Soccer League (PSL) extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Honourable Dr. Kirsty Coventry on her historic election as the 10th president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC),” Thabe said.