Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo, Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
DEPUTY Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Emily Jesaya has described sungura legend Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria as a principled artiste, disciplined mentor and rare role model whose life set a powerful standard for Zimbabwe’s arts sector.
Speaking at Zakaria’s funeral service held at Chibuku Stadium in Chitungwiza, Deputy Minister Jesaya said the veteran musician’s legacy extended far beyond his music, praising his conduct both on and off the stage.
The service drew hundreds of mourners, including Government officials, musicians, celebrities, church leaders and devoted fans from across the country.
“Madzibaba was a great teacher, not just through his music, but through his life,” Jesaya said.
“We have never heard any single story of Madzibaba being a victim of drug abuse. He was disciplined, principled and focused, and that is the example our artistes must learn from.”
She said at a time when substance abuse continues to trouble the creative industry, Zakaria stood out as a clean, sober and humble figure whose behaviour never contradicted his message.
“On and off the stage, he was a humble artiste,” she said.
“We are happy with how he is being celebrated because he truly deserves it.”
She challenged arts institutions to ensure that the recognition Zakaria received during his lifetime does not end with his passing.
She urged the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (Zimura) to continue supporting his family.
“This is how we honour our artistes: by protecting their legacy and looking after those they leave behind,” she said.
Minister of Skills Audit and Development Professor Paul Mavima said he shared a long-standing friendship with the late Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria, describing his death as a profound personal loss.
“Madzibaba and I have been friends for a very long time. He even invited me to the launch of his album Musabvunda, and we remained in constant communication,” Minister Mavima said.
He revealed that they continued talking after Zakaria was diagnosed with diabetes, right up until his passing.
“His death came as a shock to me because the last time we spoke, he looked fit and strong,” he said.
He described Zakaria as a loving, respectful and wise individual who never allowed status to define relationships.
“Even though I am a minister and younger than him, he still treated me with great respect,” he said.
He thanked mourners for the overwhelming support shown to the family, adding that the huge turnout at the wake reflected Zakaria’s standing in society.
“The numbers we see here show that Madzibaba was truly a man of the people, a legend for Chitungwiza and for Zimbabwe,” he said.
Fellow musicians described Zakaria as a father figure whose influence shaped their careers and personal values.
Alick Macheso said he emulated Madzibaba’s approach to music, professionalism and discipline, describing him as a mentor who led by example rather than words.
Macheso said Zakaria’s commitment to punctuality and respect for the industry set him apart in an industry often plagued by disputes.
Madzibaba, he said, was known for arriving early for shows, rehearsals and recordings, and was never involved in fights with promoters, a rare trait that earned him trust and admiration across the music business.
Veteran musician Somandla Ndebele described Zakaria as a unifying figure who valued peace and order in the arts sector.
He said younger artistes often turned to Madzibaba for guidance, not only on music but on professional conduct.
“He taught us that discipline, respect and humility matter just as much as talent,” Ndebele said.
Business partners and promoters who worked closely with Zakaria also shared glowing eulogies, describing him as dependable, transparent and respectful in all his dealings.
They said Madzibaba honoured contracts, avoided conflicts and treated every engagement as a partnership built on trust — qualities that made him one of the most reliable artistes in the industry.
The Chibuku Stadium funeral service became both a celebration and a moment of reflection as fans sang and danced along to Zakaria’s timeless songs.
Some wiped away tears, while others danced softly in tribute to the man widely regarded as one of the sungura music greats.
Church leaders led prayers, while fellow artistes took turns sharing memories of a musician who uplifted others rather than competed with them.
Born in Chiweshe, Zakaria rose from humble beginnings to become one of Zimbabwe’s most respected musicians.
His music, deeply rooted in social commentary and lived experience, resonated across generations and social classes.
Zakaria will be laid to rest on today at his rural home in Chiweshe, where family, friends, colleagues and fans are expected to gather for his final farewell, closing the chapter on a life defined by discipline, humility and enduring musical excellence.
