Clinical Officer Salary in Zambia
Updated March 2026 · Careers & Income
Clinical Officers provide the majority of primary healthcare and diagnostic services in Zambia, particularly outside major cities. Compare the estimated salaries for General and Specialized Clinical Officers.
Average Monthly Salary Tiers
Below are the estimated Net (take-home) monthly salary ranges for Clinical Officers in Zambia.
| Clinical Officer Level | Estimated Monthly Range |
|---|---|
| Clinical Officer General (Diploma) Standard entry-to-mid level CO deployed in rural health centers or urban clinics. | ZMK 7,500 – 10,000 |
| Clinical Officer - Specialized COs with advanced diplomas in fields like Psychiatry, Anesthetics, or Orthopedics. | ZMK 10,000 – 14,000 |
| Senior Clinical Officer / Officer-In-Charge Running a busy rural health center with administrative duties. | ZMK 12,000 – 16,000+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Clinical Officer in Zambia?
A Clinical Officer (CO) is a mid-level medical practitioner who is trained to perform many of the same diagnostic and treatment tasks as a doctor. They are the backbone of primary healthcare, especially in rural areas where doctors are scarce.
How does a Clinical Officer salary compare to a Nurse?
A Clinical Officer General (COG) typically earns slightly more than a standard Registered Nurse, reflecting their role in prescribing medication and diagnosing illnesses. However, specialized nurses (e.g., Theatre Nurses) can out-earn general COs.
Which CO specialties pay the most?
Clinical Officers specializing in Anesthetics or Surgery receive higher allowances and are in high demand in both government and private hospitals.