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Bringing this question to the public domain a month after Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria’s death may seem difficult, but fans are bound to demand answers soon.

Madzibaba, who recently succumbed to diabetes at the age of 69 and was buried in Chiweshe, has left a void that will be hard to fill.

The former Khiama Boys frontman was not only a mentor and role model but also an employer to more than 15 band members and supporting staff, who looked up to him.

He left behind a complete musical kit, a newly acquired van to transport the band members and other vehicles for carrying instruments to live shows.

He was reportedly in the studio working on his 30th album.

Will all these acquisitions be used wisely or simply auctioned?

Imagining the future of the remaining Khiama Boys without Madzibaba is quite difficult.

Will they be able to continue without him? Are divisions likely to arise? Will band members resist tempting offers from other big names? These questions linger on many lips as the reality of Madzibaba’s passing settles in.

While the band members are still mourning, potential leaders capable of guiding the group into the future are being considered by fans.

One of them is Godknows Landirani, the goat-bearded nephew of Madzibaba, known for his dancing and lead vocals.

Landirani, who was Madzibaba’s most trusted lieutenant, has assured fans that they will do their best to uphold the legacy during the funeral.

“I considered him my father since he taught and groomed me into the person I am,” he stated at the burial of Madzibaba in Chiweshe, Mashonaland Central. 

“We will try our best to keep his music going, but it won’t be easy without him. We are praying for the strength that he guides us from wherever he is.

“He taught me a lot musically, and I will always cherish him. It is my wish to ensure that we keep his music alive and afloat,” he pointed out.

At one point, when Madzibaba was unwell and unable to perform after falling ill at a show venue, Landirani would cover for him.

There are also reports regarding Madzibaba’s former driver, Matthew Zakaria, whom he was grooming to sing and play guitar.

Matthew had several stints with various bands, including Baba Harare.

However, his capacity to lead the band remains a matter of conjecture.

Madzibaba’s former publicist and nephew, Lazarus Zakaria, had the credentials but seems to be out of the race.

“We will always make sure that we maintain his legacy, but we will ensure that he is happy wherever he is because he was a teacher. However, life will never be the same without him since he used to teach us nuggets about life and pure music,” he shared.