Online Reporter
For the next three days, we honour the remarkable legacy of Nicholas ‘Senior Lecturer’ Zakaria, a music icon whose influence profoundly shaped Zimbabwe’s sungura scene.
With a career spanning nearly five decades, the Senior Lecturer touched the lives of many and mentored several artists, including Alick Macheso and System Tazvida.
Tragically, Zimbabwe woke up to the news of Madzibaba’s death.He was 69.
Join us as we celebrate his life, his contributions to music, and the lasting impact he leaves behind. Let’s reflect on the memories and melodies that defined his extraordinary journey.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Alick Macheso mourns Madzibaba
Alick Macheso, who rose to fame under the mentorship of Madzibaba Senior Lecturer, said losing
Madzibaba feels like losing a father.
Macheso said Madzibaba shaped his music career.
The Orchestra Mberikwazvo leader posted on his social media platforms: “(IMPFA NIMULANDI).
Vadikani mhuri ye Zimbabwe, muzuva ra nhasi izuva ratabaiwa panyama nhete. Ronda risingapori, ronda rinorwadza isu vararami.
“Tarasikirwa naBaba vedu Madzibaba Zakaria. Vaiva mbereko nezambuko redu mumimhanzi. Pasi rese takotamisa huso hwedu, misodzi ichiyerera pamatama nekurasikirwa negamba redu.
“Hongu tinozviziva kuti rufu chitsidzo chavo Mwari asi nzira yacho inorwadza mukurasikirwa ne umwe wedu wepamoyo .
“Mabasa avo pamwe nenziyo dzavo zvichazova nhorowondo yedu n vamwe vachazobarwa pasi rino. Hama neshamwari pamwe nemadzisahwira, tikati tinyore tsamba mbozha nezvavo rinotodoka, handina akawanda panguva ino, zvizhinji tichakupai mukufamba kwenguva.
“Ndakamirira mhuri dzose, ndinoti zororai murugare Baba.”
Malawi mourns Nicholas Zakaria
Artistes mourn sungura legend
Tributes continue to pour in for sungura legend Nicholas Zakaria, fondly known as “Madzibaba” and the “Senior Lecturer”.
His protégés and fellow artistes have shared heartfelt messages, reflecting on the immense impact he had on Zimbabwean music.
Jazz and Marabi musician Jeys Marabini described the Senior Lecturer as a perfectionist whose passing leaves an irreplaceable gap in the music scene.
“I’m saddened by the death of Nicholas Zakaria. He was a great musician, who mentored and inspired many. He left a huge mark in the industry and spoke through his music. May his soul rest in peace; we will stay comforted by his music,” said Marabini.
Musician Sandra Ndebele recalled Zakaria as a father figure who supported her early career in the 2000s.
“Madzibaba Zakaria was like a father to me. He groomed me, guided me through the ups and downs, and taught me how to navigate the industry. We had a great father-daughter relationship, and I will cherish it forever. Go well, my father,” she said.
Amapiano star Mzoe 7 recounted meeting Zakaria at a gala, highlighting his humility and generosity.
Burial set for Chiweshe on Sunday
Khiama Boys frontman Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria, who lost his battle against diabetes at Chitungwiza Central Hospital on Thursday and will be laid to rest at a family shrine in Chiweshe on Sunday.
The revered musician had been facing health challenges for months and was hailed as a legend, mentor and hero of the arts industry, having made significant contributions to the growth of the music industry in Zimbabwe.
Fellow musicians, fans and neighbours, who thronged his home in Chitungwiza A Extension,
celebrated Madzibaba as a role model deserving a high-profile send-off.
They agreed that his legacy speaks for itself, while his body of work has left an indelible mark on the showbiz landscape.
A family in pain
Madzibaba’s younger brother, Zachariah Zakaria, shared his devastation, reflecting on his elder brother’s impact on his life.
“I have lost a pillar and a guide who shaped my career. I will miss him dearly, as he was a true hero to us,” he emphasised.
“As my older brother, he always expected the best from me, and I grew to become the man I am today due to his kindness and love. He taught me the ropes, and I will always remember him for recognising my talent.”
Madzibaba’s widow, Margaret Gweshe, was equally heartbroken.
“We have lost a father and a pillar who served as our shield. We did our best, but sadly, there was nothing we could do to save him,” she noted, recalling her earlier appeals for help while Madzibaba was unwell last year.
Senior Lecturer of Zimbabwe’s musical stars
Madzibaba Nicholas Zakaria will forever be celebrated for his exceptional ability to nurture talent within Zimbabwe’s vibrant music scene.
Over the years, he played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of numerous artists, including the late Cephas Karushanga, Amon Mvula, and Aaron Chinamira Chakanyuka.
His mentorship extended to System Tazvida, who made significant strides under his guidance, and the living legend Alick Macheso, who has become a major force in the industry.
Madzibaba’s influence transcended generations, as he dedicated his life to fostering the next wave of musical talent, ensuring that his legacy will resonate for years to come.
Nation mourns
Scenes at the funeral wake at Chibuku Stadium which has seen hundreds of fans bidding farewell to sungura giant Nicholas Zakaria ahead of his burial tomorrow.
