Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts, Entertainment Hub
KHIAMA Boys frontman Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria, who lost his battle against diabetes at Chitungwiza Central Hospital yesterday, will be laid to rest at a family shrine in Chiweshe on Sunday.
He was 69.
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.
Leading the tributes, his mentee Alick Macheso, described Madzibaba as an icon and hero of the arts industry.
Fighting back tears, Macheso referred Madzibaba as a “bridge” in the sungura genre, which helped catapult many stars to success.
“I was among the first to arrive after learning about his death just after 1am,” he shared in an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub at Madzibaba’s home.
“I am who I am because of his generosity and mentorship. I will always cherish the invaluable lessons he taught me. He was a bridge to some of us who passed through his hands and class.”
Macheso also spoke fondly of Madzibaba’s wife, Margaret Gweshe, who has been left without her loving husband.
“She looked after me when I was young and treated me like a son. I can’t forget all she did for me when I was a nobody,” he recalled.
As one of the few remaining father figures in showbiz following Madzibaba’s demise and Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi’s departure, Macheso said he owed much of his success to the former Khiama Boys leader.
“My career and journey to acclaim would be incomplete without acknowledging the fatherly role Madzibaba played,” he stated.
“He took me into his home, where he was both strict and loving. He always wanted me to excel in music, and I continue to uphold that standard.”
Madzibaba’s younger brother, Zachariah Zakaria, also 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.
Veteran arts promoter Barbara “Mama Red Rose” Chikosi, who worked with both Madzibaba and Macheso, described him as a humble role model.
“Madzibaba was a legend whom I respected deeply. I collaborated with him on various significant occasions, including their reunion concert with Macheso,” she stated.
“I believe that upcoming musicians have much to learn from Madzibaba, especially regarding humility and focus.”
Similar sentiments were echoed by Simon Mutambi, who was also mentored by Madzibaba.
“Words cannot express the sorrow I feel after this loss. Madzibaba took me under his wing and was incredibly patient during my formative years,” Mutambi shared.
He vowed to continue implementing what he learnt from Madzibaba.
“As an employer at Cobra Kings Band, I am now applying his teachings, particularly in band management and the grooming of new stars.” Madzibaba’s former bassist, Nasho Azatti, remembered him as a disciplinarian who played a crucial role in shaping his life.
“Madzibaba was a father figure who did not tolerate nonsense. He instilled discipline in us, and I am now a proud father because of his teachings.” The challenges surrounding Madzibaba Zakaria’s health became apparent in January last year when The Herald Arts, now Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, exclusively reported on his struggles with hypertension and diabetes, including numbness.
He disclosed that he could no longer stand or drive for extended periods.
Despite offers of assistance from various well-wishers, he ultimately lost his battle with diabetes yesterday while working on his 30th album.
Madzibaba will be remembered for nurturing a host of stars, including the late Cephas Karushanga, Amon Mvula, Aaron Chinamira Chakanyuka, System Tazvida, and the living legend Alick Macheso.
The entire Orchestra Mberikwazvo ensemble attended the funeral wake, with notable names such as Simon Mutambi, Spencer Khumulani, Lioness Gwenyambira, Francis “Slomo” Dakha, and Loveness Mainato in attendance.
A gifted composer, songwriter, and choreographer, Madzibaba was a creative genius deserving a huge send-off.
The left-handed lead guitarist has left behind a legacy that is hard to ignore, making creativity his hallmark.
