Africa's best swimmer becomes the first female president of the IOC.

At the 144th session of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) held in Greece, Kirsty Coventry was elected president of the IOC, becoming the first woman and the first African to hold this position.

Ms. Coventry had a distinguished career in both sports and politics - Photo: REUTERS

Kirsty Coventry, born in 1983 in Harare, Zimbabwe, is Africa's most outstanding swimmer, boasting numerous Olympic medals and world records.

She won her first Olympic medals in Athens 2004 and continued to shine in Beijing 2008. Specifically, Coventry won two gold medals in backstroke events, along with many other silver and bronze medals.

Coventry's parents were of British origin who emigrated to Africa for their business. Although she represented Zimbabwe, Coventry grew up in an American school sports environment.

After retiring from playing, Coventry entered politics and in 2019 became Zimbabwe's Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation. She has been described as having revolutionized the development of sport in the country, despite facing numerous administrative challenges.

In the election, Coventry received 49 out of 97 votes, beating six other male candidates, including Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr., who came in second with 29 votes.

Ms. Coventry will succeed Thomas Bach and begin her eight-year term this coming June, with the possibility of a four-year extension.

Ms. Coventry at the 2008 Beijing Olympics - Photo: BENDER

In her post-election speech, Coventry emphasized the importance of strengthening communication and solidarity within sport.

She also addressed the challenges ahead, such as the decision regarding the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in the Olympic Games, as well as issues related to transgender athletes.

Ms. Coventry pledged to promote inclusion, strengthen ties with National Olympic Committees, modernize the host country selection process, promote clean sport, and support gender equality.

The election of Ms. Coventry as president of the IOC is not only a significant turning point for the organization but also a historic milestone for the progress of women, and Africa, in elite sports.

This event reflects the IOC's commitment to promoting gender equality and leadership diversity in sport.

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HUY DANG