The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is on the cusp of a new era as Thomas Bach’s tenure comes to an end. Among the seven candidates vying for the prestigious position of IOC President, one name stands out in history—Kirsty Coventry, the first woman and the first African to run for this office. A legendary Olympian, Coventry is Africa’s most decorated swimmer and has been a key figure in global sports administration.
As Zimbabwe’s Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts, and Recreation since 2018 and a member of the IOC's Executive Committee, she brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and a deep understanding of the Olympic Movement. Her candidacy represents a groundbreaking moment in sports governance, signaling a much-needed shift towards greater inclusion and diversity at the highest level of the Olympic movement.
For too long, the leadership of the IOC has been dominated by men, primarily from Europe, leaving Africa—the continent with one of the richest sporting cultures—without meaningful representation at the very top. Coventry’s candidacy provides a unique opportunity for a fresh perspective, one that champions the voices of underrepresented nations and prioritizes the development of sports worldwide. With her extensive experience in both competition and administration, she has already proven her commitment to expanding opportunities for young athletes, particularly through her role as Chair of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games Coordination Committee. Her election would not only make history but also usher in a new era of progressive leadership, one that understands the aspirations of athletes and the transformative power of sports on a global scale.
For too long, the leadership of the IOC has been dominated by men, primarily from Europe, leaving Africa—the continent with one of the richest sporting cultures—without meaningful representation at the very top. Coventry’s candidacy provides a unique opportunity for a fresh perspective, one that champions the voices of underrepresented nations and prioritizes the development of sports worldwide. With her extensive experience in both competition and administration, she has already proven her commitment to expanding opportunities for young athletes, particularly through her role as Chair of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games Coordination Committee. Her election would not only make history but also usher in a new era of progressive leadership, one that understands the aspirations of athletes and the transformative power of sports on a global scale.
Now is the time for Africa’s National Olympic Committees to rally behind one of their own. The IOC presidency is more than a symbolic position; it holds the power to shape policies that impact athletes, federations, and sports development programs worldwide. Electing Coventry would ensure that Africa, home to some of the world’s greatest athletes, finally has a seat at the highest table of international sports governance. African nations must unite and seize this historic moment by voting for Kirsty Coventry, an advocate for fairness, equality, and the sustainable growth of sports across all continents. Her leadership would mark a turning point, proving that the Olympic spirit belongs to all, and that Africa is ready to lead on the world stage.
The elections will take place during the 144th IOC Session that will be held from March 18th - 21st 2025 in Greece.
The team at Africa Sports Monthly and ASVG Media wishes Minister Kirsty Coventry the best in her Candidate and asks that all of the African Member Associations support and vote for her.
The elections will take place during the 144th IOC Session that will be held from March 18th - 21st 2025 in Greece.
The team at Africa Sports Monthly and ASVG Media wishes Minister Kirsty Coventry the best in her Candidate and asks that all of the African Member Associations support and vote for her.
By Leslie Koroma - CEO ASVG
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