Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
Messages of grief and heartfelt tributes have begun to pour in following the death of veteran musician Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria early Thursday morning.
Widely celebrated as one of Zimbabwe’s most influential Sungura pioneers, Madzibaba Zakaria’s passing has sent shockwaves across the music industry and his fans.
From fellow musicians to fans across the globe, social media has been flooded with condolence messages honouring the man who was affectionately known as Senior Lecturer.
Many described him as a “gentle giant” of the arts — a cultural icon whose mentorship and humility shaped generations of artists.
Prominent musicians have shared memories of the singer’s generosity and his disciplined approach to the craft, with some calling him “a national treasure” whose music defined an era.
Promoters, church leaders and community figures have also paid tribute, highlighting the respect Madzibaba Senior Lecturer commanded both on and off the stage.
Fans from as far as the diaspora have also expressed heartbreak, posting clips of his classic hits and reflecting on the role his music played in their upbringing.
Dendera maestro Sulumani Chimbetu posted: “We are deeply saddened. As we close the year 2025, the music fraternity woke up to a profound loss. Madzibaba was not only a pioneer of Sungura but a guiding light whose influence shaped generations of artists. His dedication, humility, and unmatched craftsmanship built a legacy that will forever stand as a pillar in Zimbabwean music,” he said.
“On behalf of the Chimbetu family and our musical community, I extend heartfelt condolences to the Zakaria family, friends, fans, and all who were touched by his work. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
Football and music fan Chris Romario Musekiwa described Madzibaba as a true hero of the arts.
“He has gone to be with the Lord. Madzibaba Nicholas Zakaria’s passing is a huge loss to the music fraternity not just in Zimbabwe but across the region,” he said.
“His legacy lives through the countless musicians he mentored, including Alick Macheso.Our deepest condolences to his family, relatives, friends and the entire musical fraternity. May they find peace, strength and comfort in the Lord during this difficult period.”
Another fan, a public relations practitioner, Lovemore Meya said, “I am gutted to wake up to the news that Madzibaba Nicholas Zakaria is no more. It is a sad development to the Chitungwiza community and the nation at large, my condolences,” he said.
“We are in deep sorrow with the loss. May the Zakaria family find solace in the Almighty. Having been the Public Relations Officer for the Municipality of Chitungwiza, I would like to take this time to reflect on the times we worked together with Madzibaba, a champion of community development with Chitungwiza at heart.”
He said they used to engage Madzibaba for polio vaccination campaigns.
Meya added that he learnt a lot from Madzibaba’s teachings.
Actress Amai Jilimba posted: “Our hearts are deeply saddened by the passing of our legendary musician, Madzibaba Nicholas Zakaria.
“We extend our sincere condolences to the Zakaria family during this painful time. May the comfort of the Lord surround you and give you strength,” she said.
“To the people of Zimbabwe, we mourn together. We have lost a father, a teacher, and a pillar of our music industry. Madzibaba Zakaria’s contribution to Sungura and to our culture will live forever. His music shaped generations, united families, and carried the true Zimbabwean sound across the nation.”
Arts promoter, Patson Chimbodza, affectionately known as Chipaz said, “Our deepest condolences to the Zakaria family, the entire entertainment fraternity, and the nation of Zimbabwe.
“We mourn the passing of Sungura legend, Madzibaba Nicholas Zakaria, true icon whose music shaped generations and inspired countless artists.”
He said Madzibaba’s melodies, wisdom, and unmatched contribution to our culture will live forever.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his family find comfort in knowing that his legacy will never fade away.”
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