23 Mar 2025

The triumph of Kirsty Coventry as the president of International Olympic Committee (IOC) signifies Africa’s growing influence on the international sporting stage.

Speaking at the International Women Sport Sector recently, AUSC Region 5 chief executive officer (CEO) Stanley Mutoya said Coventry’s historic achievement as the first African and first female to hold this prestigious position was testament of the power of resilience, dedication, and visionary leadership.

He said Coventry's journey from an Olympic champion to a global sports leader should serve as an inspiration to young girls across the continent. Mutoya said her leadership would undoubtedly drive greater inclusivity, equality, and opportunities for women in sports worldwide.

“We applaud her achievement, and as AUSC Region 5, we stand ready to support her vision for the future of global sports leadership,” he said.

Furthermore, he said Coventry’s success was a reminder that there were no limits to what African women could achieve when given the opportunity. Mutoya said empowering women was not only a women’s issue but a societal imperative.

“When women thrive, families prosper, communities develop, and nations advance. We must all - governments, private sector leaders, community organisations, and individuals- take responsibility in this movement,” he said.

Chairperson of Women and Sports Botswana (WASBO), Keenese Katisenge-Tizhani said they were all inspired by the historic win of Coventry as the first woman president of IOC.

“As both the first woman and the first African to hold this prestigious position, Kirsty has shattered long-standing barriers and has paved the way for countless women to follow.
Her achievement is a beacon of hope, illuminating the path toward equality and inclusivity in sport,” she said.

She further said empowering women was not just a goal but a necessity, given that they were moving closer to a future where women’s voices were amplified and their contributions celebrated.  ENDS