The Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ) Board Chairperson, Mr Charles Mpundu, has paid tribute to outgoing Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr Izukanji Sikazwe, praising her exceptional leadership and lasting impact on the organisation and Zambia’s public health landscape.

Speaking during a farewell event held in Lusaka last evening, Mr Mpundu described Dr Sikazwe’s 12-year tenure, eight of those as CEO, as a period of remarkable growth, innovation, and resilience.

“Dr Sikazwe stepped into the CEO role during a critical phase of organisational transformation,” said Mr Mpundu. “Her vision and strategic leadership have been instrumental in steering CIDRZ towards a more sustainable future.”

Mr Mpundu said that under Dr Sikazwe’s leadership, CIDRZ established CIDRZ Limited a long-term sustainability vehicle aimed at strengthening the institution’s resilience amid global funding uncertainties, including shifts in U.S. policy.

He added that Dr Sikazwe also oversaw the diversification of funding sources, reducing the organisation’s dependency on a single donor and opening doors to new partnerships with foundations and international institutions.

“She was instrumental in expanding our research and programmatic work and ensuring CIDRZ had a permanent home. Moving from modest facilities to our modern head office reflects her determination and collaborative spirit,” Mr Mpundu added.

Mr Mpundu alluded that during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr Sikazwe’s leadership positioned CIDRZ as a go-to institution for technical support, collaboration, and service delivery adding that her ability to inspire confidence and maintain morale during crises earned CIDRZ widespread respect among government agencies, diplomatic missions, and the broader community.

And CIDRZ Chief Medical Officer Dr Carolyn Bolton echoed this praise, describing Dr Sikazwe as a powerhouse of intelligence, clarity, and commitment.

“You led with courage, clarity, and a no-nonsense approach that we have come to admire and sometimes brace ourselves for. Whether in high-level Executive Committee meetings or casual Zoom chats, your honesty and directness always cut through the noise and guided us toward what truly matters,” Dr Bolton said with a smile.

Dr Bolton also commended Dr Sikazwe’s mentorship and deep investment in people.

“You helped shape careers, teams, and a culture that values excellence with integrity. Your belief in others, even when they did not believe in themselves, is a legacy we will carry forward.”

Meanwhile Professor Samuel Bosomprah, Chairperson of the CIDRZ Leadership Team, highlighted the significance of Dr Sikazwe’s leadership in the region.

“She helped CIDRZ expand its research portfolio and public health footprint and became a trusted voice across the sub-region,” he said. “Through pandemics, policy changes, and a shifting donor landscape, she remained anchored in her values and committed to the health and dignity of the Zambian people.”

Professor Bosomprah noted that Dr Sikazwe’s leadership style was not just strategic but deeply personal.

“She took time to know her team, nurture talent, and affirm those around her. That personal touch made all the difference.”

Dr Sikazwe acknowledged the powerful role that teamwork and a shared vision played in CIDRZ’s success.

“The fear of failure has driven me all these years, not wanting to disappoint those around me. That has always pushed me to give my very best. But I have come to appreciate even more that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. We achieve more when we work together,” she said.

She concluded by thanking everyone who made time to celebrate her journey.

“Thank you so much for the memories, the support, and walking this path with me.”