Faith Nyasuguta
Renowned South African Afro-pop icon Bulelwa Mkutukana, widely known as Zahara, has tragically passed away, confirmed by the country’s Culture Minister.
Zahara, acclaimed for her 2011 album “Loliwe,” which resonated across Africa, succumbed to liver complications at the age of 36 in a Johannesburg hospital.
The news follows her recent battle with health issues, with the family appealing for prayers last month.
In 2019, Zahara openly shared her struggle with alcohol addiction, shedding light on personal challenges. Despite false rumors circulating online about her demise before her passing, her family urged the public to focus on positive thoughts and prayers.
Minister Zizi Kodwa of Sports, Arts, and Culture expressed Zahara’s profound impact on South African music, stating, “Zahara and her guitar made an incredible and lasting impact in South African music.” Fans flooded social media with expressions of admiration for Zahara’s musical legacy.
Zahara’s soulful voice and compelling musical compositions, especially the hit song ‘Loliwe,’ earned her multiple local and international accolades.
In one of her interviews, Zahara expressed her desire to be remembered as a girl next door who changed lives through her inspiring music.
Beyond her musical achievements, she used her platform to address the issue of violence against women in South Africa, drawing from her personal experience.
Tragically, before her passing, Zahara became the subject of false rumours circulating online about her demise.
Her family had vehemently denied these rumours, urging the public to focus on positive thoughts and prayers for her well-being.
In an official statement released by the Zahara Family and Team, they addressed the misinformation surrounding Zahara’s health and requested privacy during this challenging time.
The statement read: “We wanted to take this opportunity as a family to express gratitude for the outpouring of love, support, and compassion for our dearest Zahara since the recent media articles about the nature of her health.
The family added in the statement, “We want to stress that any reliable information regarding Zahara’s health will be communicated via her official social media platforms or by herself.
Zahara’s departure leaves an indelible mark on the world of music, prompting fans and fellow artists to reflect on her impactful journey.
The Culture Minister acknowledged her significant contribution to South African music, marking the end of an era for a beloved figure.
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