His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officially sworn in Retired General Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe as Zimbabwe’s new Minister of Sports, Arts and Recreation.
This strategic appointment follows the departure of the Honorable Kirsty Coventry, who recently achieved the historic milestone of being elected President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The swearing-in ceremony at State House marks a pivotal moment for Zimbabwe’s sports administration as leadership passes from an Olympic champion to a decorated military leader. General Sanyatwe brings a fresh perspective to the ministry after an illustrious career in national defence.
Lieutenant General Anselem Sanyatwe’s appointment follows his honourable retirement from active military service, where he previously served with distinction as Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army.
The ministerial vacancy was created when Hon. Kirsty Coventry, Zimbabwe’s most decorated Olympian, stepped down from her cabinet position after being elected to lead the prestigious International Olympic Committee. Coventry’s elevation to IOC President marks the first time an African woman has held this prestigious global sports position.
“While we bid farewell to Minister Coventry in her national capacity, we gain an influential advocate for African sports on the world stage,” President Mnangagwa remarked “Her new role will undoubtedly benefit Zimbabwean and African athletes internationally.”
Sanyatwe’s previous experience working with the government
General Sanyatwe is a highly respected military leader known for his significant contributions during Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and subsequent military missions after independence.
Throughout his outstanding military career, he steadily advanced in rank, eventually becoming the Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA).
In addition to his military service, he has experience in diplomacy, having served as Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Tanzania
