By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
A wave of grief has swept across Zimbabwe’s music community following the passing of veteran musician Nicholas Zakaria on Thursday morning.
Among those mourning is legendary Chimurenga icon Dr. Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo, who shared an emotional tribute reflecting on the life and legacy of a man he considered both a colleague and a cultural pillar.
Speaking from his base shortly after receiving the news, the 80-year-old music luminary said he struggled to find the right words to honor a man affectionately known as The Senior Lecturer.
“Death is never timely,” Mukanya said, his voice heavy with emotion. “The passing of Nicholas Zakaria, whom I worked with for so many years promoting Zimbabwean music, came when we least expected it. Yes, he had been battling diabetes, but we believed he was on the path to recovery. Alas, God had other plans.”
For Mukanya, Zakaria was more than just a fellow artist. He was a storyteller of the everyday Zimbabwean experience — painting vivid portraits of love, hardship, joy, faith, peace, hunger, and survival.
“His music spoke to the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people,” Mukanya added. “He lived fully, giving love even where hate existed, and praising the Lord in moments of darkness.
“He may be gone, but his legacy will live forever through his music and those he mentored. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
The heartfelt tribute comes at a time when Mukanya himself has been in the spotlight.
Last week, critics questioned his decision to perform while seated during his farewell show in South Africa.
But his management has since defended him, explaining that fatigue had taken a toll after his long-haul flight from the United States.
“Imagine — he is 80 years old now,” spokesperson Sam Mature said. “He flew straight from the US and never missed a day. He went straight into rehearsals and family visits.
“The jet lag was overwhelming. Ordinarily, he would have requested a day or two of rest, but he didn’t. Overall, it was a powerful farewell performance.”
As Zimbabwe mourns the loss of one of its musical giants, Mukanya’s tribute adds a deeply personal layer — a reminder of how intertwined the nation’s artistic greats have been, both in their craft and in their shared humanity.
About Author
