Today, the Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ) held a colourful event to celebrate Zambia’s 61st Independence Anniversary with messages of unity, resilience, and hope for a brighter future.

Held under the national theme of “61 Years of Peace and Unity: Building a Resilient and Prosperous Zambia,” the commemoration brought together CIDRZ staff nationwide, both physically and online, to reflect on the nation’s progress and the organisation’s contribution to strengthening public health and community wellbeing.

Acting Chief Executive Officer, Dr Carolyn Bolton, in a speech delivered on her behalf by Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Mr Nana Appiah Qua-Enoo, commended staff for their continued dedication to improving health outcomes across the country.

She reaffirmed CIDRZ’s commitment to supporting the Government of the Republic of Zambia, particularly through the Ministry of Health, in delivering evidence-based solutions that enhance healthcare delivery.

“By listening to the lived experiences of the people we serve, we tailor our interventions to meet real needs, making our impact not only measurable but meaningful,” said Dr Bolton.

She further urged staff to remain innovative and steadfast amid challenges such as funding uncertainties, drawing inspiration from Zambia’s own history of perseverance.

“Even in the face of challenges, we must press on. Let us draw inspiration from the tenacity and hope that fuelled our independence struggle, a hope rooted in self-determination and self-reliance,” she encouraged.

Adding to the reflections, CIDRZ’s Director of Human Resources, Ms Mwansa Nancy Lombe, described the organisation’s workforce as a true embodiment of Zambia’s resilient spirit.

“When I look around CIDRZ, I see a pool of highly talented individuals. Our Zambian heritage, which we celebrate today, reminds me that we are a resilient people, capable of achieving so much. Just like the eagle on our flag, we soar above our problems,” she said.

Ms Lombe expressed optimism for the organisation’s future, noting that while CIDRZ has undergone significant changes in the past year, including project closures and restructuring, these transitions signify growth and renewal. She emphasised that transformation, though challenging, presents an opportunity to build an even stronger and more dynamic organisation.

Ms Lombe noted that although CIDRZ may not look the same as it once did, its evolution marks the beginning of a new chapter, one defined by innovation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to public health excellence.

During the celebrations, CIDRZ staff proudly showcased their patriotism by wearing the Zambian national colours and sharing a variety of traditional Zambian dishes, each prepared and brought by individual team members to celebrate the nation’s rich cultural heritage.