More Than an Award: Celebrating the People Behind the Brand”

By Daily News Reporter 

Under the soft glow of celebration lights and a spirit of pride that filled the room, Chilanga Cement Plc brought together its workforce, partners, and government leadership for a memorable evening—the CEO Awards: Night of Legacy. More than a ceremony, the event stood as a powerful tribute to the people behind one of Zambia’s most enduring industrial success stories.

At the heart of the evening was recognition—of effort, resilience, and the quiet determination that drives daily operations. Chilanga Cement Plc Chief Executive Officer Mr Sheng Jiawen, the occasion was deeply symbolic. It was not just about applauding top performers, but about acknowledging every employee who contributes to the company’s 76-year legacy.

         (Mr Sheng Jiawen)

“Each one of you plays a vital role,” he noted, emphasizing that the company’s strength lies in its people—from those on the production line to those steering strategy. His message reflected a broader philosophy: that sustained excellence is built collectively, through commitment, teamwork, and shared purpose.

Speaking at the Awards Ceremony Ministry of Labour and Social Services Minister Ms Brenda Mwika Tambatamba, in her address placed the evening within Zambia’s wider economic vision—one that prioritizes decent work, productivity, and inclusive growth.

   (Ms Brenda Mwika Tambatamba)

Referencing the national development agenda under the Republican President Mr Hakainde Hichilema, Mr Tambatamba also highlighted that the country is at a pivotal moment. She stressed that strong labour practices and compliance are not merely regulatory requirements, but essential pillars for sustainable business success.

“Compliance builds trust, stability, and long-term growth,” she said, reinforcing the importance of creating workplaces that are not only productive, but also safe and inclusive.

Her remarks resonated strongly with the theme “Night of Legacy,” which looked beyond past achievements to the future being shaped today. At its core was a simple but powerful idea: that investing in people—through skills development, recognition, and fair working conditions—drives both individual success and national progress.

Throughout the evening, award recipients were celebrated not just for meeting targets, but for embodying values—integrity, innovation, and dedication. They stood as examples of what is possible when opportunity meets effort.

Yet, the story of the night extended beyond those who took home trophies. It was also about the unseen contributions—the long shifts, the commitment to safety, the teamwork that keeps operations running smoothly. In recognising excellence, the company also reaffirmed its commitment to uplift every worker, understanding that its future depends on their growth and well-being.

The government’s call for initiatives like the 100 Days of Productivity Activism echoed as both a challenge and an opportunity. It signaled a collective push toward higher efficiency and stronger performance across sectors—an agenda that companies like Chilanga Cement are already helping to advance.

As the evening drew to a close, one message remained clear: legacy is not inherited—it is built. Built through people, through purpose, and through a shared vision of progress.

In celebrating its employees, Chilanga Cement Plc was not only honouring its past—it was laying the foundation for its future.