The Senior Lecturer Takes His Final Bow - Rest Easy Madzibaba: A Sungura Icon Remembered!
Rest In Peace Madzibaba (1957 - 2025)
Madzibaba Nicholas Zakaria, the gentle giant of Zimbabwean music and the "Senior Lecturer" of Sungura, has died. He was 68.
The founding member of the iconic Khiama Boys passed away on December 11, 2025, after a battle with diabetes and hypertension, leaving a nation in mourning and a void in the arts sector that may never be filled.
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| Nicholas Zakaria (1956 - 2025): A guiding light in Zimbabwean Music |
A Nation Pays Tribute
From government officials to global fans, Zimbabwe is mourning a man whose voice, discipline, and mentorship shaped the sound and spirit of Sungura for nearly five decades.
"It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Nicholas Zakaria... A father, mentor, and spiritual pillar. 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 the countless lives he touched."
The family emphasised that Madzibaba was not only a musician but a devoted father, husband, and community servant whose humility guided every decision he made.
Minister Anselem Sanyatwe (Arts & Culture):
"Madzibaba Nicholas was a Sungura legend whose music enriched Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage.
His passing leaves a void that makes our arts sector poorer."
Fadzayi Mahere (Former MP):
"A heartbreaking loss for the country. Zakaria was a pioneer and guardian of Sungura music,
a true national treasure."
Local Authorities:
Several district and provincial leaders praised his role in preserving traditional music while mentoring younger generations in professionalism and discipline.
Hopewell Chin’ono:
"His passing marks the winding down of an era he helped define.
An era whose only remaining notable giant is Alick Macheso — himself trained and moulded by Nicholas Zakaria."
Cultural Analysts:
Critics noted that Madzibaba’s music provided an authentic soundtrack to Zimbabwe’s social and cultural evolution from the 1980s to the 2000s.
Music Archivists:
Scholars highlighted his disciplined songwriting style, rich guitar layering, and mentorship culture as foundational pillars of modern Sungura.
Fellow Sungura and contemporary artists described him as a father figure, a quiet giant, and the “senior lecturer” whose teachings still guide band ethics today.
Promoters & Producers: They praised his humility, spiritual discipline, and unwavering commitment to uplifting young musicians through structured band mentorship.
Many acknowledged that without his influence, the careers of System Tazvida, Cephas Karushanga, Macheso, and many others might never have flourished.
As a community pillar, Madzibaba worked with schools, churches, small entrepreneurs, and youth groups—often performing at fundraising events and mentoring young instrumentalists.
Esteem Communications:
The PR firm that managed his brand noted that he approached every partnership with humility and a desire to empower others.
Their partnership helped elevate his visibility and community programs.
Corporate Supporters:
NashTV, ZIMURA, Wezhaz Executive Cars, and Kitchen-Link honoured him for his professionalism and consistency.
ZIMURA highlighted the financial support extended to him during his medical challenges as part of their duty to honour musical veterans.
From Mazowe to the diaspora, fans flooded Facebook, WhatsApp, X, TikTok, and Instagram with heartfelt tributes celebrating his gentle spirit and timeless music.
Popular Messages:
- “Your music raised us. Thank you, Madzibaba.”
- “A humble king. Zimbabwe will never forget you.”
- “Sungura will never be the same again.”
Many shared clips of his live performances, music videos, and interviews — turning social media into a digital memorial space honouring his legacy.
Scholars, music historians, and fans agree: Nicholas Zakaria was not just a musician — he was a cultural institution.
His work preserved Zimbabwe’s indigenous guitar patterns, disciplined band culture, and the storytelling spirit of Sungura. He set the gold standard for professionalism at a time when the arts industry lacked structure.
Many believe the Khiama Boys produced the highest number of successful protégés in Zimbabwean music history — a feat that cements him as the greatest mentor the genre ever had.
His philosophy was simple: “Discipline and faith are the foundation of a successful life.” That mantra became the heartbeat of Sungura for nearly 50 years.
Why He Was "The Senior Lecturer"
Nicholas Zakaria was more than a musician; he was a mentor, a culture shaper, and a moral compass in the industry.
THE MENTOR
Training Giants
Zakaria earned his title by grooming talent. His most famous protégé, Alick Macheso, learned the ropes of bass guitar and stagecraft under Zakaria's patient, disciplined guidance.
THE PIONEER
The Khiama Boys
In the early years of independence, he formed the Khiama Boys. He helped transform Sungura from simple dance music into a respected art form with philosophical depth and dignity.
THE CHARACTER
Humility & Integrity
Known for his clean living and moral seriousness, he lived modestly despite his fame. His songs chronicled the everyday joys, sorrows, and spiritual yearnings of the Zimbabwean people.
Funeral Arrangements
Mourners Gathering
Mourners are currently gathered at the Zakaria residence:
21163, Unit A Extension, Chitungwiza
Further burial arrangements will be announced by the family in due course.
"In the hush that follows the strum of the last guitar chord... a great giant of Zimbabwean music has fallen silent."
Rest in Peace, Madzibaba. Zimbabwe will remember you.
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