Staff Reporter
In a unique testament to their dedication to health and wellbeing in Shurugwi communities, among other endeavours, Eng Dr. Mncedisi Dube and Amb Professor Smelly Dube, the dynamic duo behind Gweru’s esteemed River Valley Properties, have won prestigious awards in London, United Kingdom.
This recognition by the Leaders Without Borders Development Centre underscores their unwavering commitment to leveraging initiatives, including health and others in the property market. It also highlights their significant contributions to community development and Zimbabwe’s economic growth.
The River Valley Group, a holding company synonymous with innovation and quality, has flourished under the Dube couple’s leadership, inspired by President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa’s Vision of an empowered upper middle-income society in Zimbabwe by 2030.
Dr Hillary Emoh, the Founder and Principal Partner of the Leaders Without Borders Development Centre, in separate letters to the Dubes, wrote:
“On behalf of the Leaders Without Borders Development Centre, it is with great honour and respect that we formally extend this VIP invitation to you as VIP Guest to attend and graciously participate as a Special Guest of Honour in your distinguished capacity at the 11th Leaders Without Borders Economic Development Investment Business Roundtable Summit and International Honors.”
The theme of the summit and awards event was: ‘Empowering the Future: Catalysing Global Partnerships, Innovation and High Growth Enterprises.’
The event took place on 27 to 28 March 2026 at the Millennium Gloucester Hotel, London Kensington, United Kingdom.
The Leaders Without Borders convenes a prestigious global gathering of high-level government officials, diplomats, investors, captains of industry, development partners, and global thought leaders from across Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas.
The platform fosters strategic dialogue, cross-border investment partnerships, trade facilitation, and sustainable development collaboration.
The 2026 edition offered heads of organisations, both private and government, and business executives across various industries access to high-level networking opportunities, meetings, high-return investment prospects, global brand positioning, exposure, and extensive networking opportunities.
“In recognition of your outstanding leadership, visionary contributions to infrastructure development, and your impactful role in advancing enterprise growth through the River Valley Group, we are pleased to confer upon you the prestigious Leaders Without Borders Excellence in Infrastructure Development and Transformational Leadership Award 2026,” wrote Dr Hillary Emoh to Eng Dr Mncedisi Dube.
“Your wealth of experience and visionary leadership will bring invaluable insights to the Roundtable and inspire participants on the importance of ethical leadership, strategic collaboration, and knowledge-driven development in shaping Africa’s future.”
Since its inception, the dynamic duo’s company has transformed the landscape of property development in Gweru, providing beautiful and sustainable living spaces that cater to the diverse needs of the community.
Eng Mncedisi Dube, an accomplished engineer, brings technical expertise and a keen eye for detail to the company. His passion for creating structures that not only meet but exceed client expectations has established River Valley Properties as a leader in quality construction. His approach integrates modern design principles with functionality, ensuring that each project is both aesthetically pleasing and durable.
On the other hand, Professor Smelly Dube, a respected mine manager at their Tebekwe Mine and an expert in real estate, adds depth of knowledge and strategic insight to the business. Her qualifications and experience in the male-dominated mining industry, coupled with extensive research in property markets, allow River Valley Properties to stay ahead of industry trends. She is also known for her commitment to mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals in the real estate sector, making a lasting impact on the next generation of leaders.
Their collaboration is a harmonious blend of engineering expertise and academic prowess. Together, they have cultivated a culture of excellence within their company, aligning operational practices with ethical standards and community engagement. This holistic approach not only drives business success but also fosters community development and empowerment.
These awards are not just a personal victory for Eng and Professor Dube. They also represent the hard work of their entire team and the trust placed in them by their clients and the Gweru community.
Their story serves as an inspiration, illustrating how passion, dedication, and teamwork can lead to remarkable achievements, despite humble beginnings.
As they celebrate this honour, the Dube couple remains committed to their vision of creating a thriving community through exemplary property development. The future looks bright for River Valley Properties, and this recognition marks just the beginning of an exciting journey ahead.
Eng Mncedisi Dube and Professor Smelly Dube exemplify what it means to lead with integrity, innovation, and a heart for community service. Their awards are a well-deserved acknowledgment of their contributions to mining and real estate, and a reminder of the impact dedicated individuals can have in shaping a better future for all.
