Zimbabwe’s music scene is in mourning following the death of sungura music legend Nicholas Zakaria, who passed away at the age of 68. The news was confirmed by his family on Thursday, bringing an end to the life of a man who shaped the sound of a nation for nearly half a century.
Known affectionately as “Madzibaba” or “Senior Lecturer” to his legions of fans, Zakaria was more than just a musician; he was an icon, a mentor, and a founding father of the sungura genre. His trademark bald head and long beard, which earned him the moniker “Madzibaba,” were often attributed to his past apostolic beliefs, adding to his mystique.
A family statement released following his death expressed the deep sorrow felt by those closest to him: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Nicholas Zakaria, the talented musician and beloved member of our community. Nicholas left an indelible mark on the music world with his inspiring voice and dedication to his craft. His legacy will live on through his music, and he will be deeply missed by fans and loved ones.”
Born in Mazowe, Zakaria’s musical journey began at a remarkably young age. He picked up a guitar at just eight years old and formed his first band, The Green Mangoes, at the age of 14. After settling in Harare, he co-founded the Vhuka Boys before embarking on his most successful venture: the formation of the Khiama Boys in 1984. It was with this band that he achieved national fame and solidified his place in Zimbabwean music history. The Khiama Boys produced enduring hits such as Mabhauwa and Ruregerero, songs that resonated deeply with the Zimbabwean public.
Beyond his own musical achievements, Zakaria earned the nickname “Senior Lecturer” for his pivotal role in nurturing the talents of countless other artists. He served as a mentor to many acclaimed musicians, most notably sungura giants Alick Macheso and the late System Tazvida, both of whom went on to become legends in their own right. Zakaria’s influence extended far beyond his own band, shaping the careers of some of the genre’s most prominent figures.
After the original lineup of the Khiama Boys disbanded, Zakaria embarked on a solo career, releasing over 20 albums and further cementing his status as one of sungura’s most influential figures. Throughout his career, he released numerous albums and hit songs, including “Mabvi Nemagokora,” “Rudo Rwechokwadi,” and “Zomvelamvela”. His music often spoke to the lives and struggles of ordinary people, capturing the essence of Zimbabwean life in his lyrics and melodies.
In recent years, Zakaria had been battling health issues, including high blood pressure and diabetes, which had made it increasingly difficult for him to perform. Pictures and videos circulating online in July showed him struggling to walk, a stark reminder of his ongoing battle with diabetes.
In July of this year, reports emerged highlighting Zakaria’s declining health and financial struggles. A report at the time stated, “A CRY FOR HELP: Sungura legend Nicholas Zakaria, is battling poor health, which has seen his legs swollen, and he can hardly perform at live shows to make money for his upkeep.”
The report further indicated that “Madzibaba said he was relying on well-wishers to buy food and medication.” This underscored the difficulties faced by the “Senior Lecturer,” a household name in Sungura through his band, Khiama Boys, which he formed in 1984 and groomed the likes of Alick Macheso and the late System Tazvida.
Despite his health challenges, Zakaria’s passion for music never waned. His passing leaves a void in Zimbabwe’s music scene that will be difficult to fill. He leaves behind a legacy of musical innovation, mentorship, and dedication to his craft. Details regarding a memorial service will be shared in due course, allowing fans and fellow musicians to pay their respects to a true Zimbabwean icon. His music will continue to inspire and entertain generations to come, ensuring that his legacy lives on.
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