HARARE – Sungura legend Nicholas Zakaria has died at the age of 66, his family announced on Thursday. Zakaria, one of the founding members of the iconic Khiama Boys, had been battling diabetes and hypertension. A brief family statement said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Nicholas Zakaria, the talented musician and beloved member of our community.
“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.” Known among his fans as “The Teacher” for his pioneering works in the sungura genre, Zakaria was central to the formation of the Khiama Boys in 1984, a group that became a training ground for some of sungura’s biggest names, among them System Tazvida and Alick Macheso. The band produced enduring hits including Mabhauwa and Ruregerero.
After the group’s original lineup split, Zakaria pursued a solo path, releasing more than 20 albums and cementing his status as one of the genre’s most influential figures. In July this year, pictures and videos spread online showing him struggling to walk amid his well-publicised battle with diabetes.
