Online ReporterTrust Khosa
JUNE 11 will mark six months since the passing away of Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria.
The former Khiama Boys leader succumbed to complications related to diabetes on December 11, 2025.
He was laid to rest at his rural home in Chiweshe, Mashonaland Central province.
In the months that followed, there were fears that Madzibaba’s legacy could have been buried with him.
A recent video clip showing Madzibaba’s former band members rehearsing at a local studio set tongues wagging.
However, a new heir was apparently introduced at Mushandirapamwe Hotel in Highfield, Harare, last weekend when he performed as a supporting act for Suluman Chimbetu.
It has emerged that Lazarus Zakaria, Madzibaba’s nephew, has since taken over the reins.
Backed by an enthusiastic group — including most of Madzibaba’s former members and notable returnee Nasho Azati — Lazarus is surrounded by a committed team.
At 29, and having previously managed the group before Madzibaba’s death, he now faces the challenge of writing the next chapter.
But can he meet the standards Madzibaba set?
Will he lead a band largely composed of members old enough to be his father?
Most importantly, will he secure the support he needs — from promoters, the corporate world, fellow band members and Madzibaba’s family?
Is he qualified to lead a band that has produced household names such as Alick Macheso, System Tazvida, Zacharia Zakaria, Cephas Karushanga, Amon Mvula, Batsirai Chinyanga and Simon Mutambi?
These are the questions many are asking.
“By now, it is still premature to reveal anything because we are simply focusing on reviving the legacy,” the media-shy Lazarus said in his first interview after taking over Khiama Boys.
“In short, I want to fulfil all the wishes of the godfather, my father figure and my mentor, Nicholas Zakaria. We have been rehearsing at home for the past few months, and I think we are now in the right space to go. We have just started shows, and we are not stopping.”
He has vowed to follow Madzibaba’s template.
“I learnt a lot from him to be where I am today. I learnt to be humble — always give respect to my elders and always pray, putting God first in everything I do. I am still perfecting playing the lead guitar,” he asserted.
As he navigates this new terrain — one filled with temptations and hurdles — the down-to-earth singer insists he will not be flattered by instant fame.
“I am actually overwhelmed by the feedback we receive from both old and new fans. Many thanks to my mukoma, Sulu Chimbetu, for the opportunity he gave me to show the world that Khiama will live on.
“I cannot thank God enough for the support we received last weekend when we resumed live shows, six months after Madzibaba’s death — and we feel loved. I think I should give credit to Mukoma Sulu, who gave us the platform to be his curtain raisers and offered moral support to boost our confidence. In this industry, it is hard to get this kind of love and feedback.”
On professionalism and morale, Lazarus was clear.
“I am focusing on music so that we can deliver quality to our fans. Taking a cue from Madzibaba — he was a perfectionist in sound, dressing and stage work — he never wanted to disappoint his fans.
“We are following that path and we will always strive to keep our band members happy,” he assured sungura lovers.
With competition tight on the sungura scene — where Madzibaba was an idol — the new boss’ task is to restore morale within the camp and resume live shows.
Lazarus, who appears to have learnt much from the late singer, has committed to continue learning from the seasoned members.
“We work as a team; we can go far,” he boldly declared.
With all eyes on him, he remains determined to grow with each step. A farmer as well as a musician, Lazarus revealed that he was taught the craft by Madzibaba, though he initially preferred the managerial role.
“I have always been a singer, but I focused more on running Madzibaba’s business affairs. Many people were surprised that I could sing, but it is something I have learnt over the years. I can safely say I thoroughly enjoy music, although many only realised I could sing now.”
Despite the rave reviews he has received, Lazarus has vowed to stay grounded.
“I know many people have been waiting for this moment, but we are not going to rest on our laurels. The feedback motivates us to continue working hard. I am glad to be working with a dedicated team. I am still the Lazarus people knew when I managed the band’s affairs and I will not change now that I am the leader,” he said.
“I am working with family men at the Khiama Boys Legacy and I know what is expected of me.
“As their former manager, it was never difficult to engage them. I enjoy their company and I am ready to serve them with distinction.
“As it stands, I am more than ready to learn from them. I do not know everything, and I am not shy to learn new things from my troupe.”
Lazarus has retained most of Madzibaba’s band members.
Nasho Azati is the only notable returnee, handling bass guitar and backing vocals. Other members include Forget Chikama, Knowledge Kapfuti, Herbert Dombo, Ezra Zakaria, Dennis Furawu, Nelson Mutanda, Wellington Sande, Miles Kasenje and Rodwell Cheuka.
The only notable absentee is Godknows Lindirani, Madzibaba’s most trusted backing vocalist and dancer, who has been unwell since Madzibaba’s death last year, nursing a swelling wound on his right leg.
As expectations remain high, the true test for Lazarus will be whether his leadership translates into renewed unity, sustained momentum and music that honours Madzibaba Zakaria’s legacy.
Only time will tell, but for now, the future of the Khiama Boys Legacy Band looks set for a promising new beginning.
