President Emmerson Mnangagwa officially relieved Kirsty Coventry of her duties as Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture on Tuesday, March 25.
The move follows Coventry’s election as the 10th President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) last week.
The 41-year-old former Olympian secured the role in a secret vote among seven candidates during the 144th IOC Session in Costa Navarino, Greece, on March 20. She is set to serve an eight-year term in this prestigious position.
Upon her return from Greece on Sunday, Coventry indicated that she wouldn’t immediately step down from her ministerial role, saying she would complete a proper handover with her successor in the coming weeks before formally assuming her IOC duties on June 23.
However, on Tuesday, Martin Rushwaya, the Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, announced in a statement that Coventry had been relieved of her Cabinet position. Said Rushwaya:
<blockquote>
Acting in terms of section 108 (1) (a) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, His Excellency President Dr E.D Mnangagwa has relieved Honourable Kirsty Coventry from her position as Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture following her well-deserved election as the President of the International Olympic Committee.
</blockquote>
Coventry will officially take office on Olympic Day, June 23, after the handover from President Bach. Bach will remain in his role until then, but will resign as an IOC Member following the transfer of power and will take on the title of Honorary President.
Coventry’s first major event will be overseeing the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, with less than 11 months until the Opening Ceremony.

Pindula News

President Mnangagwa removed Kirsty Coventry from being Minister of Sports because she was elected as the President of the International Olympic Committee. Coventry will officially start her new role on June 23. She will also be responsible for overseeing the Olympic Winter Games in 2026. Even though Coventry wanted to complete handover properly with her successor, the President decided to remove her from her Cabinet position. Her term will last for eight years in this new prestigious role.

Mnangagwa Removes Kirsty Coventry From Cabinet

Zimbabwe’s Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture, Kirsty Coventry, has confirmed that she will relinquish her ministerial post following her recent election as the 10th President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The 41-year-old was elected in a secret vote among seven candidates during the 144th IOC Session in Costa Navarino, Greece, on March 20. She will serve an eight-year term.
Coventry made history by becoming the IOC’s first female and first African president in its 130-year history.
Addressing the media upon her arrival from Greece on Sunday, Coventry, a two-time Olympic gold medallist, said that there is time for a smooth handover with her successor, as she will formally take office at the IOC on June 23. <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/sport/article/200039968/coventry-cherishes-cabinet-assignment">She said</a>:
<blockquote>
I’m very honoured to have been part of this government for the last few years. I will be sad not to sit next to you anymore, Monica [Women’s Affairs minister Mutsvangwa].
But I’m grateful for the advice that all my colleagues have given me over the last few years.
I’m very grateful. I can’t see Dr [Thokozile] Chitepo, but when I first came in, Doc, you were an incredible source of inspiration and support, so thank you for that. I’m proud of the work that we’ve all done.
Don’t worry, I’m not going to just run away tomorrow. We have a handover transition period, and I will formally take office on June 23rd. So, we have some time. To the ministry, I see a lot of my team from the ministry here.
Thank you to the directors, deputy directors, CDs (chief directors), and acting CDs. I appreciated getting to know all of you and working together over the last few years.
</blockquote>
Coventry will officially take office on Olympic Day, June 23, after the handover from President Bach. Bach will remain in his role until then, but will resign as an IOC Member following the transfer of power and will take on the title of Honorary President.
Coventry’s first major event will be overseeing the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, with less than 11 months until the Opening Ceremony.

Kirsty Coventry is stepping down as Zimbabwe's Sports Minister because she was elected as the International Olympic Committee President. She made history as the first African and female president of the IOC. She will formally take office on June 23 and be in charge of the Winter Olympics in 2026. Kirsty thanked her colleagues and said she will support a smooth handover to her successor. President Bach will resign as an IOC Member when she officially takes office. Kirsty Coventry is proud of the work done during her time as Sports Minister and is excited for her new role as IOC President.

Kirsty Coventry To Step Down As Zimbabwe's Sports Minister After Election As IOC President

Police have arrested three men in connection with an armed robbery that took place on March 10 at Kirsty Coventry’s parents’ house in Harare.
The robbers stole cash and valuables worth over $90,000, including some of Coventry’s Olympic items.
Two brothers, John and Mike Nongwe, are set to appear in court on Friday, facing charges related to the burglary.
The brothers, armed with guns, held Coventry’s parents, Robert Edwin and Lyn Coventry, hostage by tying their hands and legs with shoelaces at their home in Harare’s Glen Lorne neighbourhood.
The robbers ransacked the house, stealing $15,000 in cash, jewellery worth $60,000, three hair dryers, Coventry’s Olympic swimsuits, travel bags, hearing aids valued at $5,000, and three hunting firearms.
Police have recovered some of the stolen items from the suspects, which will be presented as evidence in court.
More: <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/double-joy-for-kirsty-coventry-as-police-arrest-fiends-who-robbed-her-parents/">ZimLive</a>

Two brothers were arrested for robbing Kirsty Coventry's parents' house in Harare. They stole over $90,000 worth of cash and valuables, including some of Coventry's Olympic items. The brothers tied up Coventry's parents with shoelaces and stole money, jewelry, swimsuits, travel bags, and more. Police recovered some stolen items and the brothers will face charges in court. The robbery happened on March 10 and the criminals have been caught.

Police Arrest Two Brothers Over Armed Robbery At Kirsty Coventry’s Parents’ House

A group of armed robbers targeted the home of Robert Edwin and Lyn Coventry, parents of Zimbabwe’s Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation Kirsty Coventry, in Glen Lorne, Harare, making off with a haul of valuables worth US$90,000.
According to reports, two masked men, brandishing weapons, stormed into the Coventry residence, where they overpowered and bound the couple’s legs with shoelaces.
The robbers then proceeded to ransack the house, making off with a staggering array of loot, including US$15,000 in cash, jewellery valued at US$60,000, three hair dryers, Olympic-branded clothing, travel bags, hearing aids worth US$5,000, and three high-powered hunting firearms.
Police have yet to comment about the incident, which comes amidst a worrying surge in armed robbery cases in Zimbabwe in recent years.
The rise in such crimes is partly attributed to a growing trend among businesses and individuals to keep large amounts of cash outside the formal banking system, which they increasingly distrust.
More: <a href="https://nehandaradio.com/2025/03/13/armed-robbers-raid-kirsty-coventrys-parents-make-off-with-us90k-in-cash-and-jewellery/">Nehanda Radio</a>

Armed robbers broke into Kirsty Coventry's parents' home and stole $90,000 in cash and jewelry. They tied up Kirsty Coventry's parents and looted their house, taking money, jewelry, hair dryers, Olympic clothes, bags, hearing aids, and hunting guns. The police have not yet commented on the incident. There have been more armed robberies in Zimbabwe recently, partly because people are keeping more money at home instead of in banks. This is causing concern for people's safety and security in the country.

Armed Robbers Raid Kirsty Coventry’s Parents' Home, Steal US$90k In Cash And Jewelry

The Minister of Sport, Arts, Recreation and Culture Kirsty Coventry, has blamed Finance, Economic Development and lnvestment Promotion Minister, Mthuli Ncube for stalling progress on the National Sports Stadium (NSS) renovations by delaying releasing required funds.
Ncube allocated ZWL$136 billion to the Ministry of Sport in the 2024 national budget, with ZWL$24 billion of that amount specifically for the renovations of the National Sports Stadium.
As reported by <a href="https://openparly.com/kirsty-blames-mthuli-ncube-he-is-not-releasing-the-money-for-the-stadium/">OpenParly</a>, Coventry recently told Parliament that her Ministry has done its part and is only waiting for funds from the Treasury. She said:
<blockquote>
…there were tenders that went up last year. These tenders were signed and agreed to. The Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion agreed to release money and yet today we still do not have money.
…I have had numerous conversations, meetings, and letters with the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion where the releases have been promised and have yet to date not been released. Hence the contractors that were on site, in January, February and sometime in March, have now stopped all works until they are paid.
Hon. Speaker, that is the update that I can give until the Ministry receives adequate funding release from the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion.
The Ministry’s responsibilities of tendering, upholding tenders and coming in from a technical expertise, that is open – we now await the releases to ensure that the contractors can fulfil their duties.
</blockquote>
The 60,000-seater stadium, which is managed by the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) on behalf of the government, is the biggest soccer stadium in Zimbabwe.
However, the giant facility was banned by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) from hosting international football.
As a result, Zimbabwe’s senior national men’s football team, the Warriors, are playing their 2026 FIFA World Cup home qualifiers on foreign soil.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Kirsty Blames Mthuli For Stalling National Sports Stadium Renovations

Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Minister Kirsty Coventry, recently announced significant strides in rehabilitating the National Sports Stadium. The aim is to elevate it to CAF standards for hosting international football events.
The stadium was closed for renovations but there seems to be no progress taking place after pictures circulated showing dried-out grass on the pitch.
As reported by <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/sport/article/200025287/coventry-shares-nss-progress-report">NewsDay</a>, Minister Coventry addressed parliament, acknowledging modest progress at the sports facility.
However, her Ministry remains awaiting additional funding from the Treasury to expedite further improvements. She said:
<blockquote>
With regards to the National Sports Stadium, the ministry is seized with the resuscitation to enable the facility to host CAF and FIFA-sanctioned events.
Today, the progress at this point is that the water reticulation is in progress, and with that coming along nicely, we are waiting for additional funding to be released for that process to finish.
Turnstiles and electronic ticketing machines have been procured and have been delivered and are waiting for installation. There is a need to be a smart adjustment to our gates for entry for these to fit in nicely.
The turf will be replaced and that is in progress, we have spoken to a number of the teams and players as well as the stakeholders. They will prefer to have natural grass so that is now what we are working on.
Bucket seats have been procured by a third party and are in the process of being made, and we want to thank that third party.
</blockquote>
The Zimbabwe national senior men’s soccer team, the Warriors, is now set to play the next 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho on foreign soil.
Since the Warriors are scheduled to play against South Africa a few days after the Lesotho game, they could likely choose to play both games in South Africa.
The Warriors will also be involved in African Cup of Nations qualifiers later this year.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

National Sports Stadium Undergoing Rehabilitation - Coventry

The Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Kirsty Coventry, said that the National Sports Stadium (NSS) will be ready to host international matches when the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers resume in June this year.
As reported by <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/national-sports-stadium-to-be-ready/">H-Metro</a>, Coventry recently told the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture that some companies have pledged to provide funding to complete the renovations at the National Sports Stadium by April this year.
She, however, did not name the funding companies. Said Coventry:
<blockquote>
The reason I will not do that right (name the companies) now is because of the partnerships we have.
They have asked us to give them a bit of time to put certain things in place and then make a formal announcement.
I know it’s not the answer that you want, but the goal is to ensure that we do not play any other game outside of this country and I do believe that we are on track to achieve that.
I do believe our next game is in June and we had set the target of April, so if it’s June, it gives us a little bit of leeway, but I expect that things will be done and CAF will be back in Zimbabwe to visit before April.
Those are the timelines I can share with you right now because I am bound by the MoUs I signed and I have to be as respectful as I can to those private companies that have come forward to offer financial assistance.
</blockquote>
The Warriors played their home match in a World Cup qualifier against Nigeria in Rwanda in November 2023 after the CAF ruled that local stadiums were unfit to hold international games.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

National Sports Stadium To Be Ready For World Cup Qualifiers - Coventry

Kirsty Coventry, the Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, has appealed to the treasury for funding to develop sporting infrastructure in Zimbabwe. The country currently faces the issue of dilapidated sports facilities due to neglect from both local and central governments. This has resulted in Zimbabwean football teams having to host international games outside the country.
Coventry urged the treasury to allocate grants for the refurbishment of sports infrastructure during a report to members of parliament at a pre-budget seminar. <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/sports-minister-coventry-begs-treasury-for-infrastructure-development/">NewZimbawe.com</a> reported citing Coventry’s report:
<blockquote>
 It is now time the nation should embark on or seriously consider significant investment in Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture for sustainable national development, pride, peace and security.
The sectors will never be the same again once the sport, recreation, arts and culture are afforded the requisite resources which include, appropriate workspaces, finances (working capital, concessionary loans and grants), machinery, equipment, land and skills.
</blockquote>
Every year, the Minister of Finance, Mthuli, provides funding to the Sports Ministry for infrastructure development. However, this funding has been criticised as being insufficient.
The National Sports Stadium, owned and administered by the central government, has been flagged by FIFA, and Minister Coventry’s promises to refurbish it to meet international standards have not been successful.
The parliamentary portfolio committee on Sports, Arts, and Culture has recommended focusing on the National Sports Stadium and the nearby Magamba hockey field. Coventry has proposed a blueprint to improve the country’s infrastructure. She suggests that if resources allow, additional funding should be provided to these sectors, either in the form of concessional loans or grants. Furthermore, she believes that funding for capital expenditure and office equipment should be prioritised to ensure effective service delivery.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2021/10/18/caf-to-ban-nss-after-warriors-final-2022-wcq/">condemned and banned all stadiums in Zimbabwe</a> from hosting international matches. This decision was made because the stadiums did not meet CAF’s requirements. CAF stated that the stadiums need to have bucket seats made of a strong and fire-resistant material. The owners of the stadiums are also required to set up a Venue Operations Centre (VOC) that provides a clear view of the stadiums and has CCTV monitors. The VOC should have the ability to make emergency announcements through the public address system. CAF also stated that the stadiums should have modern electronic turnstiles and automated systems.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Minister Coventry Appeals To Treasury For Funding To Develop Sporting Infrastructure

President Emmerson Mnangagwa appointed six non-constituency Ministers into his Cabinet, out of a possible seven from outside parliament. Some of the Ministers had lost their seats prior to the election.
In 2018, the non-constituency Ministers included individuals like Professor Mthuli Ncube (Finance), Professor Amon Murwira (Higher Education), <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Kirsty_Coventry/">Kirsty Coventry</a> (Sports), Dr. <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Obadiah_Moyo/">Obadiah Moyo</a> (Health), and <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/July_Moyo/">July Moyo</a> (Local Government).
The non-constituency Ministers for the period of 2023-2028 are Kirsty Coventry, Mangaliso Ndlovu, Mthuli Ncube, Ziyambi Ziyambi, Amon Murwira, and Anxious Masuka.

<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/09/12/president-mnangagwa-has-defended-the-reappointment-of-minister-kirsty-coventry/">President Mnangagwa Has Defended The Reappointment Of Minister Kirsty Coventry</a></li>
</ul>
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mangaliso_Ndlovu/">Mangaliso Ndlovu:</a></h3>
Mangaliso Ndlovu, former Tourism Minister, lost his seat as his previous constituency, Bulilima East, merged into a new constituency called Bulilima. The seat was won by Dingumuzi Phuti, who was the Member of Parliament for Bulilima West. However, Ndlovu has been given a new role. To accommodate him, President Mnangagwa split the old Ministry, appointing Barbara Rwodzi as the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, while retaining Ndlovu as the Minister of Environment, Climate, and Wildlife. Tongai Mnangagwa, the President’s nephew and MP for Harare South, was named as Ndlovu’s deputy.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Anxious_Masuka/">Dr Anxious Masuka:</a></h3>
President Mnangagwa exempted Minister Anxious Masuka from constituency politics to focus on reviving the agriculture sector. Masuka and John Basera were recognised as top performers in the 2022 evaluation. Masuka will serve as a non-constituency legislator, according to Mnangagwa’s column in The Sunday Mail and Sunday News. He wrote:
<blockquote>
I have released Minister Anxious Masuka from the distractions of constituency politics so his sole focus and sole politics relate to this one goal of transforming our agriculture for a food-secure Nation for all times.
He will be a non-constituency Member of Parliament, so he has enough time to live, think and dream of agriculture only. 
In 2022, Zimbabwe achieved a record wheat harvest as farmers delivered over 375 000 tonnes to the Grain Marketing Board (GMB).
Before last year’s output, the highest-ever wheat output since commercial production began in the 1960s was 325 000 tonnes realised in 1990.
</blockquote>
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Ziyambi_Ziyambi/">Ziyambi Ziyambi</a></h3>
Ziyambi Ziyambi was reappointed as the non-constituency Minister of Justice, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs. Despite losing in the ZANU PF primary elections, attempts to save him through a rerun indicated his continued favour. Ziyambi’s history of pushing legislation to strengthen President Mnangagwa’s power is not surprising. He demonstrated his loyalty by criticizing observer reports. His deputy is lawyer Norbert Mazungunye, who won against <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Fortune_Chasi/">Fortune Chasi</a> in the ZANU PF primaries.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mthuli_Ncube/">Mthuli Ncube</a></h3>
Ncube retains the Ministry of Finance, now called Finance and Investment Promotion. He lost his constituency seat but was reappointed as a non-constituency Minister. Despite development initiatives, criticism remains for austerity measures, currency issues, and economic instability. Public scepticism lingers regarding his ability to address these concerns. Ncube’s experience and qualifications:
– Chief Economist and Vice President of the African Development Bank. 
– Expertise in finance, economics, investment, and public policy. 
– Entrepreneur and academic. 
– Professor at the University of Oxford, teaching economic development, public policy, and business in Africa. 
– HSBC Distinguished Professor of Banking and Financial Markets at the University of the Witwatersrand. 
– Founder and former CEO of Barbican Bank. 
– Lecturer in Finance at the London School of Economics. 
– Dean and Professor of Finance at Wits Business School. 
– Board member of the South African Financial Services Board. 
– Chairman of the National Small Business Advisory Council. 
– Chairman of the Board of the African Economic Research Consortium. 
– Minister of Finance and Investment Promotion in Zimbabwe since 2023.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Amon_Murwira/">Amon Murwira</a></h3>
Amon Murwira is another non-constituency Minister who was appointed by President Mnangagwa. He is an academic and was retained as Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Development. He holds a PhD in Geo-Information Science and has expertise in GIS and Remote Sensing. Murwira worked as an ecologist in Zimbabwe’s Department of Natural Resources and is a Fellow of the Zimbabwe Academy of Sciences.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

New Cabinet: President Mnangagwa's Non-Constituency Ministers

Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation Minister Kirsty Coventry has said authorities are working to ensure that the Warriors will play their matches in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers at home.
This comes after FIFA lifted its suspension of the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA), a development that allows Zimbabwe’s national football teams to compete in international tournaments.
Responding to questions during a Press conference where FIFA confirmed the lifting of the ZIFA suspension and unveiled the normalisation committee, Coventry said:
<blockquote>
We have had good open conversations with FIFA. We will continue having conversations (about the National Sports Stadium).
The guarantees of what has been happening which has not been made public will go to FIFA through the SRC [Sports and Recreation Commission] and we remain fully committed to doing that seeing and ensuring that we are playing our games at home.
There has been ongoing work. The electronic ticketing system is now in the country waiting to be installed.
Water reticulation is in process and the feasibility study for the entire area, not just the NSS, but the grounds around it are being undertaken at the moment. It should be wrapped up in the next two to three weeks.
This has also been explained to FIFA when they visited and they also went and visited the National Sports Stadium of which they were under the impression that is crumbling to the ground, but they that it was not the case.
The feasibility study is being undertaken by a South African legitimate company that built and renovated soccer stadiums for the 2010 World Cup.
And in the next three weeks, we will have more of an update on for you on where that feasibility study will see us.
</blockquote>
All of Zimbabwe’s stadiums were banned from hosting international matches three years ago after they failed to meet the minimum standards required by CAF and FIFA.
The Warriors enter the FIFA World Cup 2026 African Qualifiers draw, which will be conducted on Thursday evening in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.
Zimbabwe are in Pot 4 of the 54-team draw along with Mozambique, Gambia, Sierra Leone, Togo, Tanzania, Central African Republic, Malawi and Libya.
There are six pots for the draw.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Authorities Working To Ensure Warriors Play At Home - Minister Coventry

The National Sports Stadium (NSS) in Zimbabwe is set to undergo major renovations in the coming months, with an internationally acclaimed partner to spearhead the work. The partner, whose name remains undisclosed, has previously developed stadiums for the FIFA World Cup in South Africa, according to Sports Minister Kirsty Coventry.
Currently, the stadium is not able to host international football matches due to it not meeting the minimum CAF requirements. As a result, it has been hosting Castle Lager Premier Soccer League fixtures for the past four months, with eight clubs sharing the ground. The overuse has resulted in the infrastructure and playing pitch suffering damage.
Speaking at the PSL Indaba, Kirsty Coventry stated that major renovations will be carried out at the National Sports Stadium in the next six months. She also revealed that corruption and inflated prices prevented the venue from being upgraded to international standards three years ago. Said the former Olympics champion:
<blockquote>
We have the National Sports Stadium being renovated for the past three years. The first attempt came crashing. Things that we tendered out were linked to third parties as I requested some documents. 
Basic things that should cost about US$200 were at US$3 000, US$4 000. The Government had put aside US$8 million but (due to the corruption around) the cost was about $15 million and US$19 million so we ended up being kicked out of the renovations.
 So the last few months, we have reorganised ourselves and sought a company which developed world cup stadiums in Johannesburg, South Africa. 
Right now there is a feasibility study being carried out. We have an incredible corporate that has come on board to help out but for now, it will remain confidential.
You will see the stadium getting a new look. We have one or two corporates. Hopefully, we will see some progress in the next three, six months. 
</blockquote>
The National Sports Stadium does not meet the minimum requirements for international football matches and is currently hosting Castle Lager Premier Soccer League fixtures due to the country’s international football participation embargo. The overused pitch has suffered significant damage, resulting in maintenance works being carried out.
The PSL has halted league action to give ample time for maintenance works, but some teams that use the National Sports Stadium have not secured alternative stadiums. The non-availability of Rufaro Stadium, which is also under renovation, has worsened the situation. The National Sports Stadium must be available to host games if Zimbabwe is recalled from the international football wilderness, and it will undergo major renovations in the next six months. If the Mbare facility’s renovation works are complete, Premiership football in Harare could be played at Rufaro Stadium.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

International Partner To Lead Major Renovations At Zimbabwe's National Sports Stadium

The Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation Minister Kirsty Coventry is standing by her comments in Parliament last week after she was given a five-day ultimatum by suspended ZIFA board members calling on her to retract her remarks.
Coventry, a double Olympic swimming gold medallist and an International Olympic Committee (IOC) member, told Parliament that US$2 million had been paid to ZIFA before the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals but the money was not accounted for.
She was explaining why members of ZIFA had been suspended by Zimbabwe’s Sport and Recreation Committee (SRC). The official Parliamentary record Hansard recorded Coventry as saying:
<blockquote>
The Government had given ZIFA about two million dollars that has never been accounted for, not FIFA money, but Zimbabwe money that Parliamentarians should want to know where it is gone. That was never accounted for.
</blockquote>
Coventry also told Parliament that the suspended members had been accused of sexual assaults on four female referees.
ZIFA Board member for finance Philemon Machana, one of those under suspension, through his lawyers, disputed the claims of sexual assault and the US$2 million reportedly paid to ZIFA. Said Machana:
<blockquote>
We have written to the Minister asking her to do the honourable thing by retracting her statements for the pain she has caused.
Failure to do so within five days will result in us serving her for proper legal procedures.
</blockquote>
However, Coventry has refused to retract her remarks. Speaking to <a href="https://www.insidethegames.biz/articles/1135596/kirsty-coventry-zimbabwe-football-row">insidethegames</a> on Wednesday, Coventry said:
<blockquote>
I’ve made my position very clear in Parliament and have nothing further to add.
</blockquote>
FIFA suspended Zimbabwe’s membership in 2022 over government interference in ZIFA affairs and there have been calls from various football stakeholders for SRC to reinstate the suspended Felton Kamambo-led board as demanded by FIFA.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Kirsty Coventry Scoffs At Suspended ZIFA Executives' Ultimatum

The suspended ZIFA executive members have given Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation Minister Kirsty Coventry a 5-day ultimatum to retract what they consider defamatory remarks or face legal action.
Coventry reportedly made the remarks during a question and answer session in Parliament on 29 March.
She allegedly told Members of Parliament that her Ministry and the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) suspended the Felton Kamambo-led ZIFA executive after it had, among several violations, failed to account for US$2 million.
According to Coventry, the US$2 million was given to the ZIFA board by the government ahead of the Warriors’ AFCON 2019 campaign.
Kamambo and his colleagues vehemently denied the allegations during a recent press conference.
They then demanded that Coventry either retract her remarks publicly or face legal action.
In a letter seen by <a href="https://www.soccer24.co.zw/2023/04/05/kamambo-gives-kirsty-coventry-5-day-ultimatum/">Soccer24</a>, the suspended ZIFA board said Coventry “deliberately and brazenly misrepresented facts” hence she should publish and “unconditional withdrawal” of the defamatory’ remarks within five days.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Kamambo Orders Kirsty Coventry To Retract "Defamatory Remarks"

FIFA is investigating a second ZIFA official over sexual harassment allegations following former referees boss Obert Zhoya’s five-year ban imposed by the world football governing body in 2022.
This was revealed by the Minister of Sports Kirsty Coventry when she appeared before parliamentarians on Wednesday to respond to questions on Zimbabwe’s ban from international football.
According to the <a href="https://www.theindependent.co.zw/sport/article/200009563/fifa-probe-zifa-board-member">Zimbabwe Independent</a>, Coventry reiterated that there was no way back for the ZIFA board members that were dismissed by the SRC.
The suspended officials include Felton Kamambo, Bryton Malandule, Philemon Machana and Stanley Chapeta. Said Coventry:
<blockquote>
For clarity, the reasons that the SRC stepped in and suspended the board were three main reasons.
The first reason was that Government had given ZIFA about US$2 million which has never been accounted for.
Secondly, four female referees have come forward and given their statements to the police and they have been investigated. Three of those members were on the board.
One of those members has already received a lifetime ban from FIFA from their own investigations that have been done over the last two months with an S25 000 fine.
FIFA is now investigating the second member that was on the board that was sexually abusing and harassing these women.
FIFA knew that this was happening in 2018/19 when these women filed an appeal with FIFA and got no response.
They then came to Government, – SRC, Government and my office worked together with these women to ensure that police reports were done and statements were made.
We then went back to FIFA and CAF and we requested for them to step in but they refused.
We then stepped in and suspended the executive for the things that I have just shared with Members of Parliament, which I have shared previously.
</blockquote>
FIFA found Zhoya guilty of sexually harassing three female referees and banned him as well as fining him US$20 000.
Meanwhile, Coventry said the government has accepted FIFA’s decision to suspend Zimbabwe from international football. She added:
<blockquote>
We have never asked them to lift it (the ban). We do not want them to lift it at this point until we have cleared and cleaned up our soccer.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200009522/ed-demands-re-run-in-violence-hotspots">Pindula News</a>

FIFA Probes ZIFA Board Member Over Sexual Harassment Allegations

Zimbabwe’s Sports Minister, Kirsty Coventry, sparked controversy in Parliament after she announced that her Ministry does not want FIFA to lift the suspension on Zimbabwe until “we’ve cleaned up ourselves.”
Zimbabwe was suspended in February 2022 after the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) suspended the ZIFA board headed by <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Felton_Kamambo">Felton Kamambo</a> over alleged maladministration and sexual abuse of female referees. 
FIFA said the suspension of the Felton Kamambo-led board constituted government interference with the sport.
The ban on Zimbabwe can only be lifted when the Felton Kamambo-led board has been reinstated, FIFA declared. Addressing Parliamentarians recently, the Olympics champion said:
<blockquote>
We accepted that (suspension). We have never asked them for them to lift. We don’t want it lifted at this point until we have cleared and cleaned up ourselves. 
</blockquote>
Some parliamentarians shouted saying that was a disservice and she responded:
<blockquote>
Disservice to who?
</blockquote>
Being banned from FIFA means:
<ol>
<li>
Loss of funding: FIFA provides funding to its member associations to develop football in their respective countries. Being banned from FIFA can result in a significant loss of funding for the country’s football development programs.
</li>
<li>
Inability to participate in international competitions: A ban from FIFA means that a country’s national team cannot participate in international tournaments such as the World Cup, regional championships like AFCON, or friendly matches against other countries.
</li>
<li>
Players failing to get noticed: Players are often scouted at international competitions. Without the ability to participate in international tournaments, they won’t be exposed to scouts.
</li>
<li>
Impact on the local football industry: Football is a major industry in many countries, with significant economic benefits and the ban can result in a decline in revenue for clubs, stadiums, and related businesses.
</li>
<li>
Political and social ramifications: The ban can be seen as a reflection of a country’s governance and may have wider implications for the country’s international relations.
</li>
</ol>
Several stakeholders including football players have voiced concern over the suspension. 
Warriors midfielder <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Marshal_Munetsi">Marshall Munetsi</a> recently urged the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) and Zimbabwe Football Association(ZIFA) to f<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/find-common-ground-munetsi-urges-src-zifa-again/">ind common ground</a> for the country to play international football.  
Minister Coventry’s remarks echo sentiments by the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Gerald_Mlotshwa">GeraldMlotshwa</a>-led SRC which insists getting the FIFA ban lifted is not a priority.
The SRC says there are “more pressing issues” which need to be solved to restore sanity to Zimbabwean football. 
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Kirsty Coventry: We Don't Want FIFA To Lift The Suspension

Record Olympic medal winner Michael Phelps and Zimbabwe’s <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Kirsty_Coventry">Kirsty Coventry</a> are among those to be inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame.
The Hall of Fame is an institution honouring the achievements of individuals in a particular activity or field.
Coventry, 39, is an International Olympic Committee (IOC) member who is being talked about as a prospective future candidate for the IOC Presidency.
The seven-time Olympic swimming medallist is the most decorated Olympian in any sport from Africa.
She and Krisztina Egerszegi share the record for the most individual Olympic medals in women’s swimming.
Coventry who is Zimbabwe’s Minister of Youth, Sports, and Recreation, competed in five Olympic Games, from 2000 to 2016, and has won all but one of Zimbabwe’s eight Olympic medals.
She won two Olympic golds after tasting glory in the 200 metres backstroke at Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008.
The Zimbabwean also won four silvers and one bronze, all in individual events.
She is a four-time world champion and a five-time world record holder, and since 2018 has been serving as Zimbabwe’s Sports Minister.
Coventry was inducted into the Hall of Fame together with American swimming legend, Phelps, <a href="https://www.insidethegames.biz/articles/1135049/coventry-phelps-swimming-hall-of-fame">Inside The Games reported</a>. During his swimming career, American legend Phelps swam in five Olympic Games between 2000 and 2016, winning a record total of 28 Olympic medals.
He has 23 gold, three silvers and two bronzes. He could swim any stroke and the 37-year-old set 39 world records in his career, winning 27 world titles.
Others inducted are:
1). Missy Franklin of the United States: retired in 2018 having won four golds and a bronze at the London 2012 Olympics. She set a female record of six world golds the following year.
2). Japan’s Kosuke Kitajima: won the 100 and 200m breaststroke at Athens in 2004 and retained both titles at Beijing in 2008.
3). Cesar Cielo of Brazil: won the Beijing 2008 men’s 50m freestyle title and earned two Olympic bronzes, six world golds and five short-course titles.
4). China’s Wu Minxia: won five Olympic diving golds between Athens in 2004 and Rio in 2016.
5). Trischa Zorn of the US: was blind from birth, becomes the first Paralympian to be recognised. She is the most successful athlete in the history of the Paralympics, having won 55 medals – 41 gold, nine silver and five bronze – between 1980 and 2004. In 2012 she was inducted into the Paralympic Hall of Fame.
6). Bob Bowman and Chris Carver of the US are named in the coaching section.
7). Natalia Ischenko of Russia has been included in the Hall of Fame for artistic swimming.
8). Heather Petri of the US, a member of the victorious team at London 2012 who then added two Olympic silvers and a bronze, as well as three world golds. Honoured from water polo.
9). Stephane LeCat of France is named in the open water category.
10). South Africa’s anti-apartheid campaigner Sam Ramsamy is honoured as a contributor.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Zimbabwe's Kirsty Coventry Inducted Into The International Swimming Hall Of Fame

The Harare City Council has accused Local Government and Public Works Acting Minister Kirsty Coventry of blocking its efforts to recruit temporary workers who will clean the city’s clogged drains as well as cut grass and clean the filthy streets.
The Chairperson of the Human Resources and General Purposes Committee Councillor Kudzai Kadzombe (CCC) said they approached the Local government ministry seeking approval to recruit drain cleaners, grass cutters, and street cleaners but Coventry refused to approve. Said Kadzombe:
<blockquote>
Council is currently carrying out drain cleaning, catch pits cleaning, grass cutting, pipe drain de-blocking and spoil removal exercises citywide.
However, our efforts have been hampered by a shortage of manpower. Council has already engaged the parent ministry, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works seeking approval to employ drain cleaners, grass cutters and street cleaners as per the ministerial directive which is against the spirit of devolution.
The ministry requested justification for the need for those specific workers, but despite providing the justification the ministry is still to respond.
After frequent follow-ups with the Ministry, we have been advised that Minister July Moyo is on Leave and the Acting Minister Kirsty Coventry refused to approve.
Once the City, has been cleared to recruit, it will expedite the process.
</blockquote>
Kadzombe said drain clearance is hampered by residents and vendors who have a tendency of using catch pits as litter pits.
This also results in blockages of catch pits and pipes leading to flooding, according to Kadzombe.
She said the local authority’s amenities division is doing day and night shifts in order to control litter while the roads division has established a designated gang responsible for drain cleaning and flood management to man the CBD throughout the rainy season. Added Kadzombe:
<blockquote>
There also is a joint drain cleaning, drain clearing and spoil removal operation between the Amenities division and the Roads division.
This is a complementary exercise to the main drain cleaning programme. The main aim is to clear the illegal dumpsites in the CBD.
The illegal dumps lead to flooding after the waste from the dumps is washed into stormwater drains.
</blockquote>

Kirsty Coventry Accused Of Denying Harare City Council's Bid To Recruit Cleaners

The Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC), has said the male and female national football teams – Warriors and Mighty Warriors – should receive direct budgetary and administrative support from the government.
The SRC made the recommendations in a statement titled, “<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/zifa-restructuring-committee-hands-over-report-to-src/">Presentation of Key Recommendations of the ZIFA Restructuring Committee</a>.” Read in part the statement seen by Pindula News:
<blockquote>
<h2>5.2 The Warriors and Mighty Warriors</h2>
The committee recommended that these national teams should be housed in a structure that receives direct budgetary and administrative support from Government whilst ensuring that FIFA rules are respected in so far as the principle of non-interference is concerned.
<h2>5.3 Junior Football</h2>
The committee recommended that ZIFA develop a standardized system to rate academy programs and school programs.
There should be developed a national database for all junior players that is functional and easily accessible.
Additionally, ZIFA should develop and support quality leagues and competitions accessible for all ages and skill levels.
<h2>5.4 Women’s Football</h2>
Women should be empowered to manage their own affairs in football. Key to this is allowing them to have direct access to FIFA funding so that it is applied to purposes intended. Women should be included at all levels of the game’s administration on a quota system.
<h2>5.5 Facilities</h2>
ZIFA should be at the forefront, either with FIFA’s assistance, or through effective lobbying of Government and local authorities, of developing facilities that encourage use for football games at a professional and recreational level. 
There should be a FIFA-rated national training centre. ZIFA village is not fit for purpose.
<h2>5.6 Communication &amp; Marketing</h2>
ZIFA relies almost exclusively on FIFA and CAF funding for its operations. It was recommended that ZIFA invest in senior business strategy and marketing positions. It should respect and maximize partnerships and retail opportunities and identify new revenue streams. ZIFA should be run as a business, not as a fiefdom or cabal.
<h2>5.7 Development of Administrators</h2>
Office bearers, administrators and coaches must have minimal CAF and FIFA qualifications and/or training. Coaching standards must be set and regulated.
<h2>5.8 Football in Schools</h2>
ZIFA should develop a specific strategy as part of a five-year plan for fostering football in the school system, especially for girls.
</blockquote>
The SRC also said it had provided the findings and recommendations of the restructuring committee to the Executive Committee of ZIFA for the purposes of drafting a roadmap. 
The committee also said once they are on the same page with ZIFA, the two organisations will then approach FIFA for endorsement.
SRC suspended the ZIFA board then led by Felton Kamambo for alleged maladministration and sexual abuse of female referees. The move attracted a ban on Zimbabwean football by FIFA which accused the government of interfering with the sport. Zimbabwe remains banned.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

"Warriors, Mighty Warriors Should Receive Direct Budgetary Support From Govt" - SRC

Youth, Sports, and Recreation minister, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Kirsty_Coventry">Kirsty Coventry</a> has been criticised for her silence when some groupings are urging authorities to ban <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Winky_D">Winky D</a> from performing in Zimbabwe for allegedly dabbling in politics.
Winky D, born Wallace Chirimuko, is under fire from some individuals and groups including the Economic Empowerment Group (EEG) over his song Ibotso he collaborated with Holy Ten.
The song describes Zimbabwe as a crime scene where the “powerful people” loot resources meant to benefit the common man leaving them in abject poverty. 
Opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party spokesperson, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Fadzayi_Mahere">Fadzayi Mahere</a>, has said Coventry, an Olympiques gold medalist, has failed in her role as a minister. 
Her remarks came after the EEG, a <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwean" title="Zimbabwean">Zimbabwean</a> empowerment lobby group founded by <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mike_Chimombe" title="Mike Chimombe">Mike Chimombe</a> after he was relieved of his post as <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Affirmative_Action_Group" title="Affirmative Action Group">Affirmative Action Group</a> (AAG) president, had urged the government to ban Winky D from performing in Zimbabwe. In a Twitter post seen by Pindula News, Mahere said:
<blockquote>
Artistes are being threatened by @ZANUPF_Official. Shadowy groupings are calling for them to be banned for singing. Through it all, the Minister of Arts is fast asleep. @KirstyCoventry is an excellent swimmer but an incompetent public official. We need new leaders. She’s drowning in her incompetence. What a disappointment.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Holy Ten, born <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Holy_Ten">Mukudzei Chitsama</a>, has said <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/eureka-holy-ten-says-he-regrets-working-with-winky-d/">he is regretting</a> working with <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Winky_D">Winky D</a> in <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/eureka-zimbabwe-is-a-crime-scene-brezh-malabas-analysis-of-winky-ds-ibotsho/">Ibotso.</a> He cites the sensationalisation of the song by commentators, mainly journalists, and activists.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

"Kirsty Coventry Is An Excellent Swimmer But Is Drowning In Her Incompetence" - Mahere

Former Dynamos fitness trainer and current Norton MP, Temba Mliswa (Independent), said that President Emmerson Mnangagwa should fire the Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation, Kirsty Coventry, and replace her with her deputy Tino Machakaire.
The outspoken former ZANU Mashonaland West chairman said Coventry has failed to promote the development of sports in the country since she was appointed minister in 2018 and should therefore be relieved of her duties.
The decline of football, arguably Zimbabwe’s most-supported sport, bears testimony to the degeneration and decay of sport in the country.
Most of Zimbabwe’s stadiums have become an eyesore, with Rufaro Stadium in Mbare, in a state of disrepair.
Added to that, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has banned all local stadiums from hosting international matches.
Mliswa warned President Emmerson Mnangagwa that his desire to be more inclusive (Coventry is a young white female), will backfire. He posted on Twitter:
<blockquote>
President ED has tried to be inclusive but those who have failed to perform should be removed. In politics, you can’t be nice to the detriment of your own power.
Any sports leader should be able to consult those in the know about certain sports &amp; I have vast knowledge in rugby such that anyone who wants to be successful in that area needs to consult me. I have produced some great players such as Tonderai Chivhanga.
It’s not that I want anything, no. I just want to see us being succeeding. However, we have arrogant administrators who have elite backgrounds &amp; feel they know it all.
Yet they can’t connect with areas such as Mbare, Highfields, rural areas etc so how do you expect sport to grow?
It’s better that the Ministry be reshuffled and Tino Machakaire is made the Minister. Kirsty has only used the position to get herself an IOC seat which isn’t beneficial to the country.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h4>

Fire Coventry And Elevate Machakaire, Mliswa Tells ED

Youth, Sports, Arts and Recreation Minister, Kirsty Coventry believes local coaches are the best for the senior men’s football national team.
Coventry said appointing Croatian Zdravko Logarusic as Warriors coach keeping him in the job that long was a mistake.
She said her office only learnt at a later stage that the Croatian would come into the country when the national team had an assignment and fly out soon after.
Coventry said the appointment of FC Platinum coach Norman Mapeza as Logarusic’s replacement was a step in the right direction. She said:
<blockquote>
I think the appointment of the new coach is a move in the right direction. We really need someone who understands our game.
I might not have been a team player in my days as an athlete, but I have learnt that for anyone to be a good coach, they need to have a better understanding of the players and environment. That is something that lacked under Logarusic.
In fact, I only came to learn later that he was flying into the country a few days before an assignment, and would fly out soon after. That is not ideal. It was actually a mistake to have allowed that situation to prevail.
Now that we have Norman Mapeza, it is a step in the right direction. I hope going into the future, we will continue embracing some of our former players, and give them roles in our national team technical set-up.
We really need these former players because of their deeper understanding of the environment and style of play.
</blockquote>
Coventry was speaking in an interview with Manica Post at the Nyanga/Mutasa Community Tournament where she was the guest at DC Mutasa Ground last week on Saturday.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/coventry-talks-up-mapeza/">Manica Post</a></h4>

Norman Mapeza Understands Our Football - Coventry

The Zimbabwe Olympic Committee (ZOC) has justified the “bloated” Olympics delegation saying some members of the delegation are under the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The Zimbabwe Delegation to the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Kirsty_Coventry">Tokyo 2020 Olympics</a> is comprised of 5 athletes and over 10 delegates. 

<ul>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/07/08/full-list-zimbabwe-olympics-delegation/">FULL LIST: Zimbabwe Olympics Delegation</a></li>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/07/23/member-of-zimbabwe-gems-delegation-disappears-in-uk-hours-before-departure/">Member Of Zimbabwe Gems Delegation Disappears In UK Hours Before Departure</a></li>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/07/05/full-text-govt-reveals-the-full-zimbabwe-delegation-to-the-netball-world-cup/">FULL TEXT: Govt Reveals The Full Zimbabwe Delegation To The Netball World Cup</a></li>
</ul>
In a statement that justified the delegation, ZOC said:
<blockquote>_Team Zimbabwe is made up of five athletes and eight athlete support personnel and the Government delegation is travelling under the National Olympic Committee transferable guests’ accreditation. The International Olympic Committee approved accreditation guidelines allow NOCs to invite key stakeholders to the Games. Transferable means they will all not be there at the same time, but one after the other. The invited guests are the chairman of the SRC and chairman of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation. These are key positions which have a serious bearing on the trajectory of our sport. The Olympic Games provide the biggest opportunity and exposure to observe best practice and world-class standards._
_Team Zimbabwe, in its travelling entourage to the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, has included in its delegation the chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio on Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation Committee. The inclusion of the Portfolio Committee chairperson stemmed from the realisation of the need to expose our legislative support systems to high-performance sport and its standard requirements which have been perennially underestimated in terms of budgetary support. It also emanates from the need for experiential learning by way of participation for informed guidance and legislative support of sport development and promotion._</blockquote>
There was already an outcry from critics, blasting ZOC for including more officials than athletes.
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>; <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/just-in-zimbabwe-olympic-committee-defends-bloated-officials-delegation-to-the-olympics/">The Chronicle</a>

ZOC Justifies Bloated Olympics Delegation

The Zimbabwe Olympics Committee has announced the Zimbabwe Delegation to the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Kirsty_Coventry">Tokyo 2020 Olympics</a> which is comprised of 5 athletes and over 10 delegates. 
This follows the confirmation of the three universality slots from the relevant International Federations. Athletes are:
<ol>
<li>Katai Donata Andra Sofia Swimming</li>
<li>Makusha Ngoni Methukhela Athletics</li>
<li>Purcell-Gilpin Peter Sean Richard Rowing</li>
<li>Vincent Scott Nicholas Golf</li>
<li>Wetzlar Peter Charles Swimming</li>
</ol>
COACHES AND TECHNICAL PERSONNEL
<ol>
<li>Chivonivoni Mufaro Joy – Golf Coach/Team Leader</li>
<li>Lisimati Phakhamile Edward – Athletics Coach</li>
<li>Stephenson James Alexander – Rowing Coach</li>
<li>Tudor-Cole Lindsy – Swimming Coach</li>
<li>Vincent Kelsey Anne – Golf Caddy</li>
</ol>
OFFICIALS AND MEDICAL
<ol>
<li>Ndlovu Fredreck Chef De Mission-Head of Delegation</li>
<li>Mnikwa Abigail Physiotherapist &amp; Covid Liaison Officer</li>
<li>Pakati Memory General Team Management &amp; Deputy Covid Liaison Officer</li>
</ol>
COUNTRY DELEGATION 
<ol>
<li>Mlotshwa Gerald N -Chairman Sports and Recreation Commission</li>
<li>Hon Mathias Tongofa -Chairman of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation</li>
<li>Kadzirange Tariro- PA to the Honourable Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation</li>
</ol>
NATIONAL OLYMPIC COMMITTEE DELEGATION
<ol>
<li>Thabani Gonye- President Zimbabwe National Olympic Committee</li>
<li>Stephen Mudawarima — Secretary-General and CEO Zimbabwe Olympic Committee.</li>
</ol>
Previously, there was outrage after several government officials flew with the Gems to England for the Netball World Cup.
Commentators argued that it was not necessary and a waste of resources to have government officials who are not directly involved in the competitions on the ticket.
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>

FULL LIST: Zimbabwe Olympics Delegation

The Minister of Youth, Sports, and Recreation, Kirsty Coventry, has appointed Maud Chifamba to the Zimbabwe Youth Council Board.
Maud Chifamba first made headlines in 2012 when she enrolled with the University of Zimbabwe at the age of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Maud_Chifamba">14 to become the youngest person to have enrolled with a University</a> in the Southern African country.
She studied Accounting at Bachelors’ Degree Level and went on to Masters with the same institution. Speaking on her appointment to the Zimbabwe Youth Council Board, Maud Chifamba said:
<blockquote>Very exciting News.
So excited to let you know that effective last week, I was appointed by the Minister of Youth, the Honorable Kirsty Coventry to the Zimbabwe Youth Council Board. Established by an act of parliament, one of the key mandates of the Zimbabwe Youth Council is to advise government on the needs of the youth. It is such an honor to be appointed to make an impact at such a national level. As someone mentioned “Young people do not need handouts, we need to be included in the places decisions are made for us”. I trust the seven fellow appointees, to carry forward the mandate for the youth.
Head over to the Zimbabwe Youth Council page to learn more about the board and the initiatives we will be working on, including the Youth Business Forum lined up for this Saturday. Get Involved, make your mark.</blockquote>
A statement that announced Maud Chifamba’s Appointment reads in part:
<blockquote>1 I am pleased that the process to have the Zimbabwe Youth Council Board is finally underway and the eight members of the 15 will be announced today on this platform These members are being instituted in terms of Section 38 (1) (a) and (b) (I) of the Zimbabwe Youth Council Act Chapter 25:19 (as amended in 1997).
2 Accordingly, the members duly appointed to the Council Board are:
<ul>
<li>2.1 Ms Chiedza Juru</li>
<li>2 2 Ms Maud Chifamba
2 3 Mr Jasper Mangwana</li>
<li>2.4 Mr Aaron Donenga</li>
<li>2 5 Mr Simbarashe Gwenb</li>
<li>2 6 Mr Krishan Patel</li>
<li>2 7 Mr Brian Sithote and</li>
<li>2 8 Mr Saberstian Sibanda</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Maud Chifamba Appointed To The Ministry Of Youth Council Board

The Under 20 National Soccer Team has been granted permission to travel to South Africa for a COSAFA tournament after the Sports And Recreactimision okayed the trip they previously barred for the reason that ZIFA had not sought permission from the SRC, the Chronicle reports.
According to the publication, the SRC had to grant the Under 20 National Soccer Team permission to travel to South Africa following a directive from the Minister of Sports Kirsty Coventry. The SRC in a statement announcing the new development said ZIFA made another application on behalf of the young warriors which was granted by the minister. Read the full statement published by Gerald Mlotshwa below:
<blockquote>
“Pursuant to the appeal by Zifa for the Zimbabwe Football National Under-20 (men) participation in the Cosafa tournament from 3-13 December 2009 in South Africa, the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) is happy to announce that the approval for the Under-20’s to participate in the Cosafa tournament has been granted.
The approval was granted by the Ministries of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation in conjunction with the Health and Childcare. 
Zifa re-submitted their request for approval following the guidance by the Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation regarding their ‘appeal’ wherein they were advised to seek exemption for non compliance from SRC.
Zifa will be required to strictly adhere to both the National and International Protocols for the prevention and containment of Covid-19 given the increase in the number of confirmed positive cases in the country and hosting province.
We wish the Under-20 all the success as they represent the country
</blockquote>
ZIFA was facing <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/11/26/zifa-faces-a-possible-ban-from-cosafa-champions-and-a-150k-fine/">a possible ban from future COSAFA tournaments and a $150 000 fine</a> for reneging on its agreement to participate in the tournament.
More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/zim-under-20-granted-permission-to-travel-to-south-africa/">Chronicle </a>

Kirsty Orders The SRC To Grant The Under 20 National Soccer Team Permission To Travel To South Africa

A High Court Judge, Justice Philda Muzofa has dismissed <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Robert_Zhuwao">Robert Zhuwao</a>‘s case in which he was suing Sports Minister <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Kirsty_Coventry">Kirsty Coventry</a> for allegedly invading part of his Cockington Farm in Zvimba, New Zimbabwe reports.
Coventry has argued that Zhuwao does not own the potion she was invading but he had in fact connived with workers from the neighbouring farm to corroborate the false narrative that the potion was his:
<blockquote>The reality of the matter is that the applicant is not in occupation. He has never been in occupation and has forced his chickens on the farm so that he can have leverage against the government in respect of the offer letter whose withdrawal he is challenging.</blockquote>
In dismissing the case, Justice Muzofa said:
<blockquote>After reading documents filed of record and hearing counsel, it is ordered that the application is dismissed with costs on a higher scale.</blockquote>
Zhuwao sometime last year was served with a notice from the ministry that notified him of the ministry’s intention to withdraw his offer letter which he challenged. The matter is still pending before the court.
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/land-row-zhuwao-loses-to-sports-minister-coventry/">New Zimbabwe </a>

High Court Dismisses Robert Zhuwao's Case Against Kirsty Coventry Invading Part Of His Farm

Addressing a press conference that had delegations from the Sports and Recreation Commission, ZIFA and the Premier Soccer League, Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation Minister, Kirsty Coventry, said they were working towards the resumption of domestic football. The Herald reports. Coventry said they have submitted a proposal to ZIFA and they were waiting to hear from the latter.
Said Coventry:
<blockquote>
As the ministry responsible for the resumption of sport, we all know that soccer has been categorised as high risk, but, we have been working with the ministry and SRC and the taskforce, which also comprise of sports doctors. We have come up with ideas, and proposals, that we have now shared with PSL, ZIFA and the Women’s Soccer League.
We are asking for them to go and look through that concept, and those ideas, to see how viable it will be, in terms of resumption, of some of our soccer (activities). It is based on the bubble-concept that we have seen in the US with the NBA and we are quite excited but, obviously, we are leaving it to the technocrats and the people in charge of soccer to tell us if it will be feasible for them and how we will all work together.
So, I am putting a bit of pressure on them to say that if they can review, with all of their expertise and come back to us, hopefully by end of next week, will be able to have another announcement with some very exciting news. I think we all know that sport, especially soccer, is the heart and soul of our country so, I hope, this will bring some much-needed mental relief for the country in the near future.’’
That is where we are asking for everyone to be a little bit patient, because those are the things that we are all discussing right now How will it work, how will the modalities work? There are a lot of questions, in terms of the concept, what will this be like, how much will this be, is this even feasible?
We have to have those discussions and that’s why I was saying if you give us this week, to have those discussions; come up with an affirmative plan and idea that has got buy-in from everyone around the table, then we will be able to give everyone a breakdown of how we think it will work. What it would need, in terms of financial investment or financial support.
So, that is sort of the second step. Right now, we are still all in that first step. Everyone, I think, has the same goal around the table. How do we allow and bring some relief to our players? But, not just our players, how do we bring that hope and that pride back to our players and our country and how do we give our country some form of relief in terms of mental relief from Covid-19?
</blockquote>
Countries like Zambia, Tanzania and South Africa have resumed football after suspending it for months due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/our-beautiful-game-is-coming-back-govt-gives-biggest-hint-of-national-game-return/">The Herald </a>

Give Us This Week To Come Up With An Affirmative Plan - Kirsty Coventry On The Resumption Of Football

MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa on Sunday chided Sports Minister Kirsty Coventry for joining the ZANU PF farm-grabbing bandwagon.
Addressing party supporters through an online rally yesterday afternoon, Chamisa reminded Coventry that it was important for government officials to respect property rights. Said Chamisa:
<blockquote>I saw Kirsty has also joined land grabbing. My sister, the great swimmer, she is now swimming into the farms.
You go and swim in the farms, what is there in those farms? Property rights must be respected.
An MDC Alliance government will make sure property rights are secured not that when a Zimbabwean has a farm someone from Zanu PF will just pop in and say let’s harvest the produce together.
A country is not run like that, without the rule of law.</blockquote>
Coventry was allocated a 232-hectare farm in Zvimba District that was recently seized from Robert Zhuwao, a nephew of the late former president Robert Mugabe.
In 2019, Lands Minister Perrance Shiri ordered Zhuwao to vacate the farm arguing that he was in breach of conditions of his offer letter.
Coventry, an Olympic gold medalist, has been a member of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s cabinet since 2018.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/chamisa-takes-dig-at-kirsty-coventry-over-farm-grab/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

Chamisa Lambastes Coventry Over Mugabe Nephew Farm Grab

The High Court on Tuesday ruled that Robert Zhuwao, a nephew of the late former President Robert Mugabe, never had a claim to subdivision 4 of Cockington Farm that was allocated to Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation Minister Kirsty Coventry.
Zhuwao had made an application at the High Court seeking a spoliation and prohibitory interdict against the minister, that is an order granting him possession of the land he said was in dispute and a ban on the minister using that land.
Justice Chitapi also rejected Zhuwao’s urgent application because neither he nor his farm manager, who lives in the area, was present to testify in court.
Zhuwao was allocated subdivision 1 of Cockington Farm in Zvimba while Minister Coventry was allocated subdivision 4 on the same Cockington Farm.
The High Court, therefore, struck the matter off the roll since there could be no dispute between Zhuwao and Minister Coventry.
Zhuwao lost the farm allocated to him in December 2004 after his offer letter was withdrawn last year in March on the basis that he had abandoned it since 2011.
Zhuwao, who is the son of national heroine Sabina Mugabe, is reportedly admitted at a hospital in Zambia.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/high-court-rules-on-zhuwao-farm/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Herald</a></h4>

Mugabe's Nephew Loses Farm Dispute With Kirsty Coventry

Former Finance Minister Tendai Biti has called for a full independent audit to be conducted on land ownership in the country following the seizure of a farm belonging to Robert Zhuwao, a nephew of the late former president Robert Mugabe by Kirsty Coventry, a former Olympic gold medalist.
Writing on his Twitter handle, Biti characterised the ruling ZANU PF elite as a motley of gangsters, looters and highway robbers who hijacked the land reform programme for self-aggrandisement. Said Biti:
<blockquote>Reports of Kirsty Coventry grabbing a farm without due process should not surprise anyone. This regime is nothing but a motley of gangsters looters and highway robbers. The land reform program was never about historic injustices but self-aggrandizement. Zanu elites took the land.
ZANU elites are multiple farm owners almost without exception. They have refused an independent land audit into farms They continue to loot state coffers through subsidies such as command agriculture and GMB floor prices for grain. They underpay farmworkers and don’t pay for utilities.
The land is a vital resource and land reform must be rationalized and democratized. The full independent audit must be done, land market and the land bank must be restored, title and security of tenure must be given. One household, one farm and maximum size of farm per region must be maintained.</blockquote>
Zhuwao has approached the courts seeking a spoliation and prohibitory interdict against Coventry who is now the Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation

Kirsty Coventry Latest News

Latest Jobs