Chido Maenzanise
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA
Zimbabwe’s Strongest Woman Chido Maenzanise has earned continental recognition after being nominated for the Africa Strongwoman of the Year Award at the Africa Fitness Honors and Expo 2026.
The prestigious awards, which celebrate excellence, leadership and impact in Africa’s fitness and wellness industry, will be held on December 5, 2026, at the British Council in Accra, Ghana.
According to the organisers, Maenzanise was nominated in recognition of her dedication, consistency, achievements and contribution to the sport of Strongwoman.
The nomination also recognises her outstanding influence and commitment to advancing the sport of Strongwoman across Africa and the diaspora.
Public voting for the awards will run from July 15 to August 15, 2026, with the final results determined through a combination of 40 percent public voting and 60 percent assessment by the Africa Fitness Honors Academy of Experts.
The academy will evaluate nominees based on their overall body of work, competitive achievements, leadership, consistency, influence, professionalism and contribution to the growth of Strongwoman and strength sports across the continent.
Speaking after learning of the nomination, Maenzanise described the recognition as one of the biggest achievements of her career.
Chido Maenzanise
“This is such a great achievement in life. I really want to thank God, family, coach and my fans for the support.
“I’m feeling happy and shocked at the same time because I couldn’t believe that I will be the chosen 1,” said Maenzanise.
The Africa Fitness Honors and Expo, also provides nominees with an opportunity to network with international industry leaders, athletes, coaches, gym owners, fitness professionals, brands, sponsors and media representatives from across Africa, the United States, Europe, the Caribbean and the African diaspora.
Maenzanise’s nomination adds another milestone to Zimbabwe’s growing presence in strength sports and gives the country another opportunity to shine on the continental stage.
