Today, CIDRZ recognised 53 staff members during the Labour Day celebration for their commitment, hard work, innovation, creativity, and cost efficiency, while others were honoured for outstanding performance and leadership excellence.

The ICT Department also received the Chief Executive Officer’s Annual Award for Excellence.

Aligned with Zambia’s 2026 Labour Day theme, “Securing Zambia’s Future of Work: Protecting Jobs, Skills and Pensions for Decent Work for All,” the ceremony brought together leadership, management, and staff to celebrate individuals whose contributions continue to strengthen health systems and transform communities.

Chief Executive Officer Dr Otto Chabikuli commended staff for their commitment and teamwork, describing them as the organisation’s greatest strength.

“Our main asset is the people,” said Dr Chabikuli.

He emphasised the importance of preparing both the organisation and employees for the future by nurturing staff development, driving innovation, and prioritising wellbeing.

“We must invest in our people through the right tools, skills, and systems if we are to build a resilient workforce and secure the future of work,” he said.

Meanwhile, CIDRZ Board of Directors representative Doris Tembwe praised staff for their dedication and collective contribution to the organisation’s success, describing them as the driving force behind CIDRZ’s impact in healthcare, research, and public health innovation.

“Our greatest strength has always been, and will always be, you, the staff, the heart of this organisation and the driving force behind its impact,” she said.

Director of Human Resources Ms Mwansa Lombe inspired staff to embrace compassion, resilience, and self-worth, reminding everyone that personal wellbeing and dignity are the cornerstones of a thriving and supportive workplace culture.

Twenty staff members received awards for Commitment and Hard Work, six for Innovation and Creativity, four for Cost Efficiency, and ten for Most Outstanding Performance. Thirteen employees were honoured with Leadership Awards for their guidance and contributions to organisational growth. The CEO Annual Award for Excellence was presented to the ICT Department for leading technological advancements and driving digital transformation at CIDRZ Headquarters.

Dr Chabikuli congratulated all award recipients and acknowledged the collective effort behind the organisation’s achievements.

“None of us will excel without many other contributions around us. Our work is a team sport,” he said.

He also praised staff whose efforts often go unnoticed but remain critical to the organisation’s success.