Unleashing hope and changing lives Dr Smelly Dube assists female prisoners

ON a chilly Wednesday afternoon, the arrival of Dr Smelly Dube, a Gweru-based philanthropist and businesswoman, at Shurugwi Female Prison was greeted with cheers and ululations from both the prisoners and the Zimbabwe Prison and Correctional Services officers.

Driven by a deep sense of compassion and a humble spirit, she embodies the remarkable journey of a woman who has defied all odds to become one of the leading businesswomen in the country.

This ordinary-looking woman, affectionately known as “The Iron Lady of Midlands,” has not only achieved tremendous success but also remains committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those in need.

Dr Dube’s name has become synonymous with her company, River Valley Properties, as she transformed from her humble beginnings in the rustic villages of Mberengwa into a highly respected business tycoon. Despite her accomplishments, she never loses touch with her roots and finds joy in extending a helping hand to those less fortunate.

Her unwavering smile and resilience in the face of challenges have earned her numerous national and international accolades, solidifying her status as a prominent figure in the business world.

During her visit to Shurugwi Female Prison, Dr Dube brought a much-needed glimmer of hope to the female prisoners. She donated groceries worth thousands of dollars, presented a generous sum of US$1 000 in cash and refurbished a dilapidated prison barrack.

She has also pledged to drill a borehole within the correctional facility to ensure a constant supply of clean water thereby mitigating water-borne diseases. This borehole will not only address their basic needs but also provide the inmates with the opportunity to engage in productive farming activities thereby enhancing their nutrition and overall well-being.

To uplift the prison’s ambiance, Dr Dube also donated 10 x 20 litres of paint after realising that the prison building needs a new coat of paint.

Within the confines of Shurugwi prison walls, two minor children reside with their mothers. Dr Dube’s compassion extended to them as well as she provided tracksuits and other warm clothing to the children.

“I can imagine how difficult it must be for these women to raise their children in such difficult conditions. I want to make a difference in their lives and offer them some hope for a better future. Children are the future and their upbringing is crucial to the progress of any society,” she said.

Dr Dube said she has a long-standing relationship with Shurugwi Prison and pledged to continue supporting its inmates.
“As River Valley Group, we have a long-standing relationship with the Shurugwi community especially Shurugwi Female Prison.

We have worked and we will continue to work hand in hand with the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Prisons. We have held several Christmas celebrations here with inmates and their children, we also donate food hampers on a quarterly basis. Today we are here to hand over a staff block which we renovated. We are also going to donate paint for the whole complex so that we improve the outlook of our Prison and we will continue working with you in future,” she said

Receiving the donations on behalf of the Officer Commanding Midlands Province, Superintendent Wadzanai Zimunya commended Dr Dube and River Valley Properties for their unwavering support.

“We are gathered here today to witness the handing over of Shurugwi Prison Officers barrack which was renovated by River-Valley Properties under the stewardship of Dr Dube. River-Valley Properties has shown us that they are our all-weather friend. In times of celebrations and in tribulations you are always with us. We thank you very much Dr Dube. This is a typical example of a woman providing for other women,” she said.

Chief Nhema, representing the Shurugwi community, also commended Dr Dube’s philanthropic work which he said is transforming communities especially the prison inmates.

“On behalf of the Shurugwi community, Chief Banga and Ndanga, we would like to thank Dr Dube and her company for her humanitarian work. This is the true spirit of Ubuntu,” said Chief Nhema. — @pchitumba1