ZIMURA Extends Lifeline to Nicholas Zakaria
The Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA) has stepped in to support sungura musician Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria with a US$500 incapacitation allowance, as the veteran artist battles ongoing health issues.
Zakaria, regarded as one of the founding fathers of sungura music, has been struggling with illness for several months.
His absence from a recent family concert at Zebra Village in Harare sparked public concern, prompting him to appeal for prayers from fans across the country.
Speaking to local media at the time, Zakaria confirmed his condition had prevented him from performing. “I just managed to send my band, PA system and my son Franco to the family show,” he said, highlighting the extent to which his health has compromised his career.
In response, a ZIMURA delegation visited the musician at his home in Chitungwiza earlier this week, presenting the US$500 support package along with groceries worth US$20. The funds are intended to help cover medical expenses and day-to-day needs during this challenging time.
ZIMURA’s director of information, media and publicity, Alexio “Goodchild” Gwenzi, described the gesture as part of the association’s broader mandate to care for its members beyond royalty distribution.
“Zakaria has been a valued member of ZIMURA since 1990. This incapacitation allowance is part of our welfare programme aimed at artists who are no longer able to work due to illness or other valid reasons,” said Gwenzi.
He explained that once a member’s condition is assessed and verified, ZIMURA provides the once-off US$500 payment. “Whenever we visit the member due for incapacitation allowance, we don’t go empty-handed. So, we also bring some basic groceries,” he added.
The support comes as Zakaria’s health continues to decline, raising concern within the music industry and the wider public.
Known for mentoring some of Zimbabwe’s greatest musical talents, including Alick Macheso and Simon Mutambi, Madzibaba Zakaria has been instrumental in shaping the country’s musical landscape over the past four decades.
Although his last major public appearance was months ago, sources close to the family say the 68-year-old musician is receiving medical care and remains hopeful of recovery.
ZIMURA has reiterated its commitment to supporting artists during and beyond their careers. Other benefits provided by the organisation include gratuity payments for members aged 75 and above with at least 20 years of continuous membership, funeral assistance, legal advice, recommendation letters, copyright education, and free digital distribution of music.
“As an organisation, ZIMURA remains committed to the well-being of its members. We honour their contributions to the cultural fabric of Zimbabwe and aim to ensure they are supported, particularly during difficult periods,” Gwenzi said.
Zakaria’s fans, meanwhile, continue to rally around the veteran performer, expressing hope that he will return to the stage soon. The musician’s enduring legacy, both as a performer and mentor, remains firmly embedded in Zimbabwe’s cultural memory.
