By Staff Reporter
GWERU-based business leaders Eng. Dr Mncedisi Dube and Amb. Prof. Smelly Dube are set to be honoured at the prestigious 100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit to be held in Marrakech, Morocco, from June 26 to 29, 2026.
The influential couple will receive the “Africa Inspiring Change Maker Award” in recognition of their contribution to ethical leadership, entrepreneurship, humanitarian work and women empowerment across Africa.
The summit, which brings together leading entrepreneurs, policymakers, diplomats and innovators from across the continent, seeks to promote dialogue on sustainable development, peacebuilding and economic empowerment.
The Dubes’ recognition reflects the impact of their work through the River Valley Group of Companies and their continued efforts to empower communities, particularly women and young entrepreneurs in Zimbabwe and beyond.
Their initiatives are said to complement Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 agenda championed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, which aims to achieve inclusive economic growth and ensure that no one and no place is left behind. The vision also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union Agenda 2063.
Amb. Prof. Smelly Dube has earned recognition for championing women’s empowerment and enterprise development, initiatives that have enabled many women to participate meaningfully in business and leadership.
Eng. Dr Mncedisi Dube, meanwhile, has been applauded for his leadership philosophy rooted in service, resilience and community transformation.
Organisers of the summit said the couple’s participation would add value to discussions on leadership, empowerment and Africa’s economic future.
In a letter to the honourees, Organising Committee chairperson Amb. Dr Kingsley Amafibe said the award recognised the couple’s growing influence and contribution to Africa’s evolving business landscape.
“It is in recognition of your growing impact, visionary leadership and contribution to Africa’s evolving business landscape that you have been selected for this distinguished continental recognition,” he said.
“This honour celebrates not only your achievements, but also the hope, inspiration and opportunities your leadership continues to create for countless people across the continent.”
He added that their presence at the summit would inspire entrepreneurs, women leaders and young Africans from across the continent and the diaspora.
The recognition also forms part of the broader “100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa” initiative, which seeks to promote ethical leadership, strategic partnerships and sustainable development across the continent.
The summit is expected to attract some of Africa’s most influential figures and serve as a platform for celebrating excellence, strengthening networks and advancing conversations around peace, empowerment and inclusive growth.
For the Dubes, the honour marks another milestone in their leadership journey and reinforces their growing influence in business and community development on the African continent.
