By Blessing Nduku & Richard Shumba
Former TelOne striker Washington Navaya, who was crowned Soccer Star of the Year for 2025 after an outstanding season, was honored by Gweru Mayor Clr. Martin Chivhoko and River Valley Group of Companies CEO Prof. Smelly Dube for winning the country’s top award and putting the city on the football map.
Navaya, a resident of Mtapa in Gweru, was presented with a 1,000 sqm residential stand in Gweru’s Hertfordshire Phase 2, valued at USD 30,000.
The stand was given to him by River Valley Properties Group CEO Ambassador Prof. Smelly Dube and Engineer Dr. Mncedisi Dube. Additionally, the Gweru Mayor presented the Soccer Star of the Year with an undisclosed cash prize.
This gesture occurred during the Mayor’s Cheer Fund ceremony at the Gweru Civic Center, which recognized Navaya’s exceptional performance and contributions to Zimbabwean football.
During the handover ceremony, Ambassador Prof. Smelly Dube—known for her philanthropic efforts and commitment to community upliftment—stated that the gesture was part of her ongoing dedication to supporting and celebrating local talent.
“This is our way of thanking Washington Navaya for putting Zimbabwe on the map through sport. At River Valley Properties, we believe in recognizing excellence and giving back to those who inspire our communities,” she said.
Navaya expressed his gratitude for the unexpected gift, describing it as a humbling moment and a source of motivation. “I am truly honored. This means a lot to my family and me. It shows that our efforts on the pitch are being noticed and appreciated beyond the football field,” he commented.
The ceremony, part of the Mayor’s Cheer Fund event, also saw Ambassador Dube extend her generosity to vulnerable groups in Gweru. Several families received grocery hampers and cash vouchers to help them celebrate the new season with dignity and joy.
