The Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ) has donated COVID-19 test kits to the Zambia Medical Association (ZMA) worth ZMW 198,000. The kits will be able to support 1125 individual Covid-19 tests for frontline Staff and Care givers. CIDRZ has also offered its laboratory services such as blood tests, based at the Central Laboratory situated at Kalingalinga clinic at a discounted rate valued up to ZMW 50,000 to ZMA Members who may need such services.

Speaking at the donation hand over ceremony, CIDRZ Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Izukanji Sikazwe said that her organisation responded to the call made by ZMA on their concern for the need for frontline workers to be tested and as part of ZMA Care for the Caregiver task force.

Dr Sikazwe expressed appreciation to all front-line workers and ZMA members for their continued efforts. She said that CIDRZ will continue to be a key ally in this fight.

In receiving the donation, ZMA President Dr. Crispin Moyo thanked CIDRZ for the support shown.

Dr. Moyo said that CIDRZ’s kind gesture would not only motivate but also strengthen the medical profession in the preparation of the projected Covid-19 4th wave in the country. He urged Zambians including all health care workers to get vaccinated to help prevent the spread of COVID- 19.

And in her closing remarks, Dr. Sikazwe congratulated the new ZMA National Executive on their election to office and looked forward to continued partnership in delivering better health and wellbeing in the country.