Sungura Legend Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria Mourned Nationwide

Zimbabwe’s music fraternity mourns sungura legend Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria, the iconic guitarist and mentor whose four-decade career shaped modern Zimbabwean music (image source)

Harare — Zimbabwe’s music community is in mourning following the death of sungura icon Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria, the revered guitarist, composer and mentor affectionately known as the Senior Lecturer. Zakaria passed away on Thursday, ending a career that spanned more than four decades and helped shape the sound and direction of modern Zimbabwean popular music.

Born in 1956 in Mazowe, Zakaria’s musical journey began early under the influence of his father, Maluva Chekani. By the age of 14 he had formed his first group, The Green Mangoes, and steadily rose from performing in Dzivaresekwa to national prominence. He later became a central figure in the Khiama Boys, a band widely credited with defining sungura’s musical identity. His intricate lead guitar work, warm vocals and composed leadership style established him as both an innovator and a mentor.

Over his prolific career, Zakaria released close to 40 albums, including classics such as Chikumbiro, Ndine Mubvunzo, Ramanana and Ruvheneko. His music blended melodic sophistication with social and spiritual reflection, earning him admiration across generations. Critics and fellow musicians frequently highlighted his rare ability to combine technical mastery with emotional depth, producing guitar lines that became reference points for aspiring artists.

Tributes poured in from across the country and the diaspora. Alick Macheso, his most prominent protégé, described Zakaria as a father figure and a bridge between musical generations, cancelling two scheduled performances in his honour. Guitarist Clive “Mono” Mukundu hailed his work as “a treasure no one can take away,” while gospel duo The Charambas remembered him as a gentle giant. Social media and radio airwaves filled with testimonies from artists who credited Zakaria with shaping their careers and instilling professional discipline.

Large crowds gathered at Zakaria’s home in Chitungwiza, where mourners dressed in white and light blue lined the street to pay their respects. The turnout reflected both personal grief and collective recognition of his cultural contribution. Younger musicians spoke of his patience and insistence on excellence, while peers recalled years of collaboration, mentorship and quiet generosity.

Zakaria’s life was also marked by resilience. During periods when the music industry struggled, he took on various jobs, including truck driving, to sustain his craft and support his family. His mentorship extended beyond music, offering guidance on career choices, personal conduct and the responsibilities that come with public influence.

As funeral arrangements and memorial events are finalised, the music fraternity is planning tributes through performances, archival projects and mentorship initiatives aimed at preserving his teachings. Cultural institutions have indicated support for documenting his work to ensure future generations can access his repertoire and legacy.

Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria leaves behind an enduring artistic and cultural legacy. In a country where music carries memory and meaning, his songs and teachings will continue to resonate. His passing marks the end of an era, but his influence will live on through the countless musicians he inspired.