Kirsty Coventry soon after being elected as the new IOC president in Greece. Milos Bicanski/Getty Images
By Dickson Bandera
The Zimbabwe Olympic Committee (ZOC) has ushered in a new era of leadership following the election of a fresh board, with seasoned sports administrator Thabani Gonye elected as the new President.
The leadership change comes at a pivotal moment, coinciding with the elevation of Minister of Sport, Arts and Recreation Kirsty Coventry to the Executive Board of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Gonye will be supported by First Vice President Fredreck Ndlovu, Second Vice President Merit Munzwembiri, and Treasurer Mxolisi Ndlovu. The board also features members Tawanda Sithole, Xolisani Gwesela, Lizzie Mupure, Charmaine Chamboko, Abel Chimukoko, Edson Chirowodza, and Abigail Mnikwa. Representing the voice of athletes is Rudo Neshamba, chairperson of the Athletes Commission.
The ZOC’s CEO and Secretary General Marlene Gadzirayi will continue in her role, providing strategic direction and ensuring operational continuity as the new board takes up its mandate.
Kirsty Coventry’s appointment to the IOC Executive Board has been widely welcomed as a boost for Zimbabwe’s profile in international sport. The former Olympic gold medalist becomes one of the few Africans in such a senior role, potentially opening doors for increased investment and advocacy for African athletes.
The new ZOC leadership is expected to focus on athlete development, better resource mobilization, improved governance, and preparations for future Olympic Games. Strengthening grassroots sports and creating sustainable pathways for talent identification are also high on the agenda.
“The team is united by a vision to elevate Zimbabwean sport,” Gonye said after the elections. “We are committed to transparency, accountability, and delivering results that matter to athletes, coaches, and the nation.”
With Zimbabwe aiming to increase its medal prospects in upcoming international competitions, the newly elected board faces the challenge of transforming vision into action amid resource constraints and increasing global competition.
