In a vibrant, purple-themed celebration filled with energy and reflection, the Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ) marked International Women’s Day with a special event under the global theme “Rights, Justice, and Action for All Women and Girls.”

The event celebrated the achievements and contributions of women across the organisation while also calling for practical, measurable action to advance equity, opportunity, and inclusion at every level of CIDRZ.

Delivering the keynote address, Chief Executive Officer Dr Otto Chabikuli encouraged staff to move beyond symbolic recognition and embrace everyday practices that genuinely empower women in the workplace and in the communities the organisation serves.

He reflected on the long history of struggle and progress toward gender equality, noting that real transformation occurs when equity becomes part of routine organisational decisions, from recruitment and promotions to leadership development and community engagement.

“Rights, dignity, safety, and opportunity for women must be experienced in practice. These are not privileges granted at someone else’s convenience; they are fundamental and must be upheld because they define the unity and strength of women,” Dr Chabikuli said.

He also highlighted CIDRZ’s ongoing efforts to improve access to education, health information, and preventive health services, particularly for women who face barriers to formal education and healthcare.

Dr Chabikuli emphasized that advancing gender equity is a shared responsibility for both men and women, noting that the organisation is committed to fostering an environment where women can thrive every day, not only during commemorative events.

He further stressed the importance of creating space for women in meetings, decision-making platforms, and leadership pathways, enabling them to grow professionally and assume positions of greater responsibility.

CIDRZ Human Resources Director Ms Mwansa Lombe delivered an encouraging message to young women within the organisation, urging them to believe in their abilities, speak up, pursue opportunities, and remain resilient in their professional journeys.

She also called on colleagues to actively support and mentor one another, emphasising that the advancement of women strengthens the organisation as a whole.

“Progress has always been driven by courage, resilience, and solidarity. We must continue building environments where women can thrive. Use every opportunity to grow, mentor others, and make your presence felt, your contribution can inspire change for everyone around you,” Ms. Lombe said.

Ms Lombe added that while celebrations such as International Women’s Day are important, true recognition of women’s achievements must also be reflected in tangible opportunities for growth, leadership, and career advancement.

As part of the commemoration, CIDRZ organised several activities aimed at promoting allyship, recognition, and staff wellbeing, including the “Men Tell the Story” campaign, wellness yoga sessions, laboratory haemoglobin prototype testing, and other initiatives designed to foster inclusion and collective support across the organisation.