Uganda’s State Minister for Sport, Hon. Peter Ogwang, has extended his congratulations to Zimbabwe’s Kirsty Coventry following her historic election as the president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Coventry, a former Olympic swimming champion, became the first woman and first African to hold the prestigious role in the organization’s 130-year history.
Ogwang took to social media to commend Coventry’s achievement, highlighting its significance for Africa and the global sporting community.
“It is gratifying to learn of the election of Hon. Kirsty Coventry, the Minister of Sports from the Republic of Zimbabwe as the 10th President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). She is the first-ever woman and African to be elected to that position. Congratulations Hon.,” Ogwang tweeted.
Coventry’s election, which took place in Olympia, Greece, saw her secure a decisive victory in the first round of voting, defeating high-profile contenders, including World Athletics president Lord Coe. She will officially assume the presidency in June, succeeding Thomas Bach.
Coventry has pledged to modernize the IOC, promote sustainability, and empower athletes, with her leadership set to be closely watched as she navigates key challenges, including gender eligibility in sports, climate change, and the reintegration of Russian athletes into Olympic competition.
Ogwang has previously emphasized the importance of African nations having a stronger voice in international sporting bodies.
