Nicholas "Madzibaba" Zakaria: The Senior Lecturer of Sungura (1956 – 2025)
The Zimbabwean music fraternity is in mourning following the death of legendary Sungura musician Nicholas Zakaria. Affectionately known as "Madzibaba" or the "Senior Lecturer," Zakaria passed away leaving an indelible void in the nation's cultural heart.
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| Nicholas Zakaria (1956 - 2025): A Life of Song and Mentorship |
With a career spanning nearly half a century, Zakaria was a cornerstone of the Sungura genre. He was not only celebrated for his distinctive, meditative sound but also for grooming some of the country's biggest stars, including Alick Macheso and System Tazvida. A family statement confirmed the news, describing him as a man deeply revered for his artistry and character.
Origins & Early Life
Born in 1956 at Belgownie Estate in the Mazowe farming area, Nicholas Zakaria's origins trace back to Malawi. His father, Maluva Chekani, moved from Malawi to settle in Zimbabwe (then Rhodesia) in 1947.
Zakaria's musical journey began at the tender age of eight. Despite his father's initial disapproval, Nicholas would sneak his father's box guitar to practice. By age 14, he had formed his first band, The Green Mangoes, opting to pursue music over his 'O' Level exams.
The Sungura Pioneer
After moving to Harare and playing with the Vhuka Boys, Zakaria co-founded the legendary Khiama Boys in 1984. The group included heavyweights like the late Tineyi Chikupo, Alick Macheso, System Tazvida, Cephas Karushanga, and Zakaria’s wife, Margaret Gweshe.
The band produced massive hits, most notably "Mabhauwa". The song's success was bittersweet, as it led to a split in the group, with members leaving to form their own outfits. Despite the fractures, Zakaria remained a steady force in the industry.
In 1997, following further splits within the band, Zakaria took a hiatus from full-time music to work as a haulage truck driver to raise funds for new instruments. This demonstrated his humility and resilience. He made a powerful comeback in 2002, re-establishing his band and releasing a string of successful albums that solidified his status as a "Godfather" of the genre.
Why "Senior Lecturer"?
Zakaria earned the title "Senior Lecturer" not through academia, but through his immense contribution to grooming talent. He is credited with nurturing musicians who went on to become legends in their own right, including the Sungura King Alick Macheso and the late System Tazvida.
Even when his protégés found fame that arguably rivaled his own, Zakaria remained humble, famously stating, "Mbiri yavo imbiri yanguwo" (Their fame is my fame too). His music was distinctively calmer and more meditative compared to the fast-paced styles of his students.
Personal Life & Faith
Zakaria was widely known as "Madzibaba" due to his long beard, bald head, and initial membership in the Mugodhi Apostolic sect. His spiritual journey was dynamic; he later joined Prophet Walter Magaya's PHD Ministries in 2014 and eventually the His Grace International Ministries Church.
Nicholas was married to Margaret Gweshe, a former dancer for the Khiama Boys. The couple was blessed with two children, Rudo and Simba. The family faced a devastating tragedy in 2008 when their son, Simba, committed suicide at their rural homestead after battling a long illness.
Selected Discography
Zakaria's discography is vast, with over 29 albums. Some of his most celebrated works include:
- Chewa Hits (2011) – A historic compilation of all-Chewa songs.
- Mabvi Nemagokora – One of his most popular releases.
- Munongedzo (2006)
- Ndine Mubvunzo
- Zomvelamvela – A hit song capturing the loneliness of migrant labor.
Frequently Asked Questions
He was nicknamed "Madzibaba" due to his long beard, bald head, and his membership in the Apostolic sect earlier in his life.
He mentored several Zimbabwean music icons, most notably Alick Macheso and System Tazvida.
He was the frontman and founder of the Khiama Boys.
Nicholas Zakaria's death was confirmed via a family statement, marking the end of an era for Sungura music.
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