Zimbabwean music has lost one of its most influential figures following the death of veteran Sungura artist Nicholas “Senior Lecturer” Zakaria, whose passing was confirmed on Tuesday in an official statement shared on the Nicholas Zakaria and Khiama Boys Facebook page.
In a brief message, the Zakaria family expressed sadness at the death of the celebrated musician, describing him as a talented artist and beloved member of the community.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Nicholas Zakaria, the talented musician and beloved member of our community,” read the statement.
“Nicholas left an indelible mark on the music world with his inspiring voice and dedication to his craft. His legacy will live on through his music, and he will be deeply missed by fans and loved ones. Details regarding a memorial service will be shared in due course. Rest in peace, Senior Lecturer.”
Often referred to as the “Senior Lecturer” of Sungura music, Nicholas Zakaria ranks among the most respected figures in Zimbabwe’s music history.
His nickname captured his widely acknowledged role as a mentor, guiding and nurturing generations of artists.
Zakaria rose to prominence as the bandleader of Khiama Boys, one of the country’s most influential Sungura groups.
Formed in the 1980s, the band became a training ground for major names who later transformed Zimbabwe’s music scene — among them Alick Macheso, who started his career under Zakaria’s tutelage before becoming a star in his own right.
Over the decades, Zakaria released numerous hits that shaped the identity of Sungura, a genre known for its fast-paced guitar rhythms and socially conscious storytelling.
His gentle persona, discipline, and commitment to music earned him admiration from fans and fellow musicians alike.
Zakaria became synonymous with consistency. While some of his contemporaries experimented with shifting genres or modern trends, the Senior Lecturer maintained a signature Sungura sound rooted in storytelling, community values, and intricate lead guitar arrangements.
Songs such as “Mazano,” “Stobhu,” “Pfimbi,” and “Zombinga” became household favourites, resonating across generations and cementing his place as a cultural pillar.
Despite achieving national fame, Zakaria was known for his humility.
He balanced music with farming and often spoke about discipline, integrity, and the importance of family, values he infused into his compositions.
In recent years, Nicholas Zakaria’s health had become a concern for fans after reports surfaced of his struggles with diabetes and related complications.
Although he continued to perform when able, the veteran musician battled recurring illness that occasionally kept him away from the stage.
His public appearances had become less frequent, and updates about his health were often met with messages of support from fans across Zimbabwe and the diaspora.
His passing brings an end to a long and courageous fight, leaving behind a legacy defined not by his illness but by his remarkable contributions to Zimbabwean music.
Following the announcement, tributes have been pouring in from fellow artists, broadcasters, and fans who credit Zakaria with shaping the sound of modern Sungura.
Many have highlighted his role as a mentor and disciplinarian — a man whose guidance gave rise to some of Zimbabwe’s most successful recording artists.
Music promoters described him as a “quiet giant”, while radio presenters called him a “custodian of Zimbabwe’s musical heritage.”
Social media was flooded with messages celebrating his humility and unwavering devotion to his craft.
Nicholas Zakaria leaves behind a towering legacy in Zimbabwean music. As the Senior Lecturer, he taught by example — through discipline, creativity, and a steadfast commitment to preserving Sungura’s roots.
His music continues to play in homes, commuter buses, and public events, a reminder of the timeless sound he helped define.
Rest in peace, Senior Lecturer.
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