Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Art, Entertainment Hub
MORGAN Tazvivinga, the eldest son of the late sungura legend Leonard Dembo, praised Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria as a compassionate and generous figure who cared for his father in his final moments.
Madzibaba, who passed away last week at the age of 69 and was buried on Sunday in Chiweshe, Mashonaland Central, was hailed for looking after the celebrated musician Dembo during his illness.
Dembo, who died on April 9, 1996, at the age of 37, received unwavering support from Madzibaba in the months leading up to his death.
During that time, Madzibaba provided a shoulder to lean on, organising a series of shows together to help him cope with his deteriorating health.
Madzibaba, who was already a household name in the mid-1990s, had already assumed the role of a fatherly figure in music.
Recalling their bond, Morgan, who was among the mourners in Chiweshe, emphasised Madzibaba’s big role in caring for his father during his illness. “We are still grappling with the loss of Madzibaba Zakaria, but we are also celebrating the life of a legend — an exemplary mentor and father figure,” he noted.
“For your information, when my father was gravely ill, it was Madzibaba who made a tremendous effort to assist him. He treated him like a brother and organised numerous live shows together. Though I was very young then, I am well aware of this story.”
Morgan shared that he will always remember Madzibaba for his efforts in supporting Dembo, who, like Madzibaba, was a devout Christian.
“I have many stories to tell about this incredible man we have lost, and I want you to know that we will forever cherish the good work he did,” he remarked.
“Our family holds him in high regard because it’s rare to find someone who becomes a pillar of support during tough times.”
He continued:
“In Madzibaba’s case, he did his best to uplift my father when he fell ill. To have someone like him assist a stranger is truly remarkable.”
As Morgan spoke, fellow sungura star Macheso nodded in agreement.
“My only wish for the family, the band, and fans is that they should unite and find a way forward to keep Madzibaba’s legacy alive. We all recognise his contributions to the nation and the music fraternity as a whole.
“With all due respect, Madzibaba will always remain a hero, father figure, and mentor who left an indelible mark on the showbiz landscape,” he emphasised.
Macheso, who consoled a distraught Morgan, acknowledged the lessons learnt from Madzibaba. “What Morgan has said about Madzibaba rings true, and we will miss him dearly. To me, I could write volumes about Madzibaba, who was a loving and nurturing father figure in music.
“He cared for everyone and wished to see young talents thrive in the industry.”
Having honed his craft under the guidance of icons like Madzibaba, Dembo, and Simon Chimbetu, Macheso pledged to share his insights with the new generation, as the spotlight now shines on him as a mentor.
“To be honest with you, I aspire to see this genre grow and continue making an impact, just as it once did.
“We have many young talents with immense potential, and our success relies on collaboration, as exemplified by Madzibaba. He loved everyone, and we gather here to celebrate his legacy, which is truly inspiring.”
With Madzibaba’s death still fresh in the minds of many, the desire to preserve his legacy remains a priority for the remaining Khiama Boys band members, family and loyal fans.
Although life will never be the same without him, efforts to revitalise the genre are not just an option but a necessity.
Madzibaba was among the top creatives who helped lay the foundation for sungura music, standing alongside legends like Dembo, Chimbetu, and many others.
Madzibaba’s protégés, led by Macheso — undoubtedly the most decorated and successful of them — have made the nation proud.
Some of Madzibaba’s notable students include the late System Tazvida, Amon Mvula, Aaron “Chinamira” Chakanyuka, and Cephas Karushanga, who all benefited from his exceptional mentorship.
The new generation of sungura musicians, led by Simon Mutambi and Howard Pinjisi, are examples of stars who have also passed through his tutelage.
It remains to be seen whether Madzibaba’s kindness, love, and spirit of mentorship will inspire the remaining sungura musicians of our generation or not.
Madzibaba was a legend — not self-centered, but a generous man determined to help others.
Dembo was among those who greatly benefited from his kindness, as recounted by his son Morgan.
