Africa’s Strongest Woman Chido Maenzanise Powers to 26th Medal, Sets Sights on World Records
Zimbabwe’s powerhouse athlete, Chido Maenzanise, is once again making headlines across the continent after securing yet another gold medal—this time at the Botswana Strongest Man Competition. Competing in a discipline traditionally dominated by men, Maenzanise proved that strength knows no gender, clinching first place and cementing her status as Africa’s strongest woman.
The victory adds to an already glittering career, marking her 26th career medal. Of these, an impressive 21 are gold, alongside three silver medals and two bronze—a record that speaks volumes about her dominance in the sport of powerlifting and strongwoman competitions.
Speaking after her latest triumph, Maenzanise expressed immense pride in her achievement but emphasised that she is far from done. “This is my 26th medal after scooping bronze and silver in the past, and my 21st gold medal overall,” she said. “I believe there is still more room to achieve even greater records, especially if I can secure more sponsorship
Africa’s Strongest Woman Targets Strongman
Maenzanise’s focus is now fixed on her next challenge—the Zambian Strongman Competition scheduled for September 6. She will once again test her strength against both female and male athletes, determined to prove that women can compete and excel at the highest levels of the sport.
“Competing against men is not easy,” she admitted. “But it’s my ambition to break world records and show that women can be just as strong. With every competition, I feel more confident about where I belong in this sport.”
However, despite her remarkable success, Maenzanise is quick to highlight the financial and logistical challenges that athletes like her face. She laments the lack of proper sponsorship in Zimbabwe for niche sports such as strongwoman competitions. “The problem we face is limited sponsorship. We need more sponsors to come on board to help us reach our full potential,” she said.
She took the opportunity to extend heartfelt gratitude to the individuals and organisations who have supported her so far. “I would like to thank my two coaches, Black Moses and Coach Shane, for their guidance. I am also grateful to my sponsors—Mr Maredza, Mr Gadzikwa, and Mr Musengezi—as well as Sabhuku Themba Mliswa. A special thanks goes to my mother, who acts as my manager, and to the Ministry of Sports, Black Moses Academy, the Strongman president, and all the strongmen for their warm support.”
Maenzanise’s career has already taken her far beyond Zimbabwe’s borders. She has represented the country in South Africa, Rwanda, the United States, and other nations, gaining valuable experience and exposure to international competition. Her travels have not only helped her grow as an athlete but have also allowed her to carry Zimbabwe’s flag high on the global stage.
Her rise in the sport is a testament to her relentless determination, discipline, and unwavering belief in her abilities. In a field where female competitors are often underestimated, Maenzanise has shattered stereotypes and inspired countless young women to pursue strength sports.
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Observers say her success could help attract more attention to strongwoman and powerlifting events in Africa, potentially paving the way for greater investment and opportunities for future athletes.
As she prepares for the Zambian competition, Maenzanise’s eyes are set on even bigger dreams—world titles and record-breaking performances. If her career so far is anything to go by, she has both the strength and the spirit to make it happen.
With 26 medals already in her collection, Chido Maenzanise is not only Africa’s strongest woman but also one of the continent’s most inspiring athletes. Her journey proves that with passion, perseverance, and the right support, barriers can be broken, and history can be made.
