Staff Writer
Gweru Mayor, Martin Chivhoko, has lauded the Chief Executive Officer of the Rivervalley Group of Companies, Professor Smelly Dube, for her exceptional philanthropic efforts, which have spurred both social welfare and economic growth in the city.
During a special ceremony, the mayor presented Prof. Dube with Gweru City Council’s highest civilian honor – the prestigious Mayor’s Award – in recognition of her tireless charity work, which has benefited countless underprivileged citizens in Gweru.
Prof. Dube’s latest act of generosity was the donation of a large consignment of groceries, including mealie meal, flour, cooking oil, sugar, and rice, which will be distributed through the mayor’s cheer fund to support the elderly and vulnerable children in the city.
In his speech, Mayor Chivhoko expressed his pleasure in starting the year 2025 by honoring a community champion like Prof Dube.
“It is with great pleasure that I begin the new year by recognizing exceptional individuals who have made a profound impact on our community,” he said. “Prof. Dube is a shining example of selflessness and kindness, and we are grateful for her generosity and tireless contributions to the people of Gweru.”
The mayor also highlighted that beyond her charitable donations, Prof Dube’s leadership has been a driving force in aligning with President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030, aiming for a middle-income society by 2030.
“Her leadership, vision, and commitment to economic growth and community development are instrumental in shaping a stronger, more resilient Gweru,” said Mayor Chivhoko.
In 2024 alone, Prof Dube’s charitable work included donations of essential materials to the Midlands Police through her company River Valley Properties, as well as providing support to vulnerable families and organizations like MASO (Matabeleland AIDS Service Organization).
Her other initiatives include a rolling scholarship program for children from child-headed families and assistance to widows in the community.
“It is this kind of unwavering commitment to philanthropy that makes Prof Dube a role model for us all,” Mayor Chivhoko concluded.
“The Mayor’s Award is a small token of our immense gratitude for her generosity and her remarkable contributions to our community.”
Through her continued efforts, Prof. Dube is not only uplifting Gweru’s most vulnerable but also fostering a spirit of unity and progress, helping to build a prosperous and compassionate city for future generations.
Part of Prof Dube’s donation for Gweru Mayor’s Cheer Fund
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