ZIMBABWE’S music fraternity is enveloped in sorrow following the passing of the iconic sungura legend, Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria, affectionately known as the Senior Lecturer.
Revered for more than four decades as a master guitarist, composer, mentor and cultural custodian, Zakaria, who died on Thursday, left behind a legacy that rests firmly at the heart of the nation’s musical identity.
His death stirred deep emotions across the country, with fellow musicians, fans and protégés expressing heartfelt grief while lifting him high as a hero whose influence will endure for generations.
Zakaria, frontman of the illustrious Khiama Boys, was celebrated for shaping the careers of some of Zimbabwe’s finest musical exports, among them Alick Macheso, Simon Mutambi, Zakaria Zakaria, Cephas Karushanga (late) and System Tazvida (late).
His intricate lead guitar, unmistakable voice and gentle authority earned him unconditional respect.
To many, he was more than an artiste and, instead, was he was a guide, a teacher and a spiritual anchor whose wisdom flowed effortlessly through melody.
Macheso, his most prominent protégé, offered a deeply emotional tribute and speaking on behalf of the entire Macheso family, he honoured Zakaria as a father figure and the bridge that connected generations of musicians.
“Dear brothers and sisters all over the world, today is the day we are wounded in the flesh, a wound that never heals, a wound that hurts us, the living. With the loss of our Father, Father Zakaria, who was our source and bridge in music.
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“All over the world we have turned our faces, tears flowing down our cheeks at the loss of our hero. Yes, we know that death is a promise from God, but the path is painful in the loss of one of our loved ones.
“Their works, as well as their songs, will become our history and those who will be born on this earth. Brothers and friends and acquaintances, I do not have many words at this time, many will be given to you in the course of time. I am representing our whole family, May I say rest in peace Father,” Macheso posted on his Facebook account.
Other musicians echoed the same sense of reverence and gratitude.
Guitarist Clive “Mono” Mukundu mourned the fallen giant, noting that though death leaves wounds no one can heal, and Zakaria’s music remains “a treasure no one can take away”.
Gospel couple The Charambas described him as a “gentle giant”, thanking God for the gift that he was to the nation.
Singers Olinda Marowa, Mafi Liston and Anord Munkombwe also shared comforting messages, celebrating his guidance, humility and the seeds he planted in the music world.
Born in 1956 in Mazowe, Zakaria’s musical journey began at the tender age of eight under the influence of his father, Maluva Chekani.
His passion led him to form The Green Mangoes at just 14, setting him on a path that would define Zimbabwean music.
His rise from the streets of Dzivaresekwa to national fame was marked by resilience and at one point, he even working as a truck driver to fund new instruments during a Khiama Boys hiatus.
With close to 40 albums which include Chikumbiro, Ndine Mubvunzo, Ramanana and Ruvheneko, Zakaria established a body of work that remains foundational to sungura music.
His artistry transcended entertainment, offering moral lessons, social commentary and spiritual nourishment.
In his passing, Zimbabwe salutes not only a musician, but a hero and the one who taught, mentored and uplifted. Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria’s legacy is safely etched in the nation’s soul.
May the Senior Lecturer rest in eternal peace.
