By Ashley Dean Misho | Arts and Entertainment Reporter
www.zimgbcnews.co.zw
Zimbabwe is in mourning following the death of Nicholas Zakaria, one of the most influential figures in the history of Sungura music.
Known as the “Senior Lecturer” for his role in teaching and mentoring countless musicians, Zakaria passed away on Thursday, 11 December 2025.
He was 66 years old. His death, confirmed on his official Facebook page, has sent waves of grief through the nation, described by fans and artists as a “black cloud” over Zimbabwe’s music industry.
He is remembered as the quiet giant whose guitar and guidance shaped the sound of a nation for generations.
His Journey and Who He Was
Born on 5 April 1956 in Mazowe,Nicholas Zakaria’s musical journey began incredibly early.
He was playing guitar by age 8 and formed his first group, The Green Mangoes, at just 14. His passion led him to Harare’s Dzivarasekwa suburb, where he co-founded the legendary Vhuka Boys with Shepherd Chinyani.
In 1984, he established his most famous band, the Khiama Boys, which became the foundational school for Sungura music.
Nicholas Zakaria earned his”Senior Lecturer” nickname not just through his own music, but by nurturing some of Zimbabwe’s biggest musical stars.
His Khiama Boys served as a training ground for legends like the late System Tazvida and the Sungura superstar Alick Macheso, as well as Donald Gogo and Zacharia Zacharia.
Despite facing setbacks, including the breakup of Khiama Boys twice—which once forced him to return to truck driving to fund new instruments Zakaria persevered. He rebuilt his career, producing classic albums like Munongedzo and Mbuva Youpenyu, and timeless hits such as “Mabhauwa,” “Chikumbiro,” “Zomvelamvela,” and “Ida Anokuda.”
The Man Called “Madzibaba”
Beyond music,Zakaria was also known by the nickname “Madzibaba.” This term of respect reflected his deep apostolic faith. He was originally a member of the Mugodhi apostolic sect, later joining Prophet Walter Magaya’s Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) ministries in 2014.
His signature beard and hairstyle became a familiar part of his identity, embodying a man whose spirituality and artistry were intertwined.
The soul of Zakaria’s music often carried messages of faith and gratitude.A perfect example is his iconic song “Mabvi Nemagokora,” which features the heartfelt lyrics:
“Tapfugama namabvi namagokora tichipemberera…
Musiki wakanaka, wakatipa mweyaa wekufema…”
He was more than a performer; he was a teacher, a resilient craftsman, and a cultural pillar. While he leaves behind a grieving family including his wife Margaret and daughter Rudo, having predeceased his son Simba—his true legacy is immortal.
It lives on in the melodies that still fill homes and buses, and in the careers of the stars he taught.
Though the Senior Lecturer has played his final chord, the lessons and the music of Nicholas Zakaria will echo forever in the heart of Sungura.
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