Zimbabwean female athlete, Chido Maenzanise has cemented her status as one of Africa’s premier strength athletes, making history over the weekend by winning the prestigious Africa’s Strongest Woman title in a fiercely contested two-day tournament held in South Africa.

The 30-year-old athlete claimed the victory in a competition that featured top strength competitors from across the continent, including Zambia, Ghana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Algeria, and the host nation, South Africa.

Maenzanise’s win, which brings her total medal tally to an impressive 28, came after a dramatic comeback on the final day of the Africa’s Strongest Man and Woman 2025 competition.

Reflecting on the contest, Maenzanise described it as the toughest of her career.

“It was a very tough competition out of all the ones I’ve taken part in. This was the hardest because I was competing directly with athletes from Ghana and South Africa, and they really pushed me,” she said.

The provisional results after the first day saw South Africa in the lead, with Maenzanise and her Ghanaian rival tied for second place.

The Zimbabwean champion admitted the final outcome was unexpected.

“I thought the tie would be broken between me and Ghana for second and third place, but I couldn’t believe it when the final tally was announced and I was the one in first place. It was a miracle for everyone. All I can say is God is great, and if you work hard, you will win,” Maenzanise shared.

The competition tested the athletes’ physical limits through a series of grueling events, including Deadlift Max Challenge, Truck Pull Showdown, Giant Dumbbell Press for Reps, Yoke and Sandbag Relay, Super Farmers Carry and The decisive Atlas Stones Finale.

Maenzanise’s performance in these events demonstrated exceptional physical strength, determination, and resilience, ultimately securing her the top spot and solidifying Zimbabwe’s place on the African strength athletics stage.

Maenzanise has dedicated her victory to her support system.

“This victory is the result of everyone’s support,” she added.