South African Afro-pop singer Zahara, also known as Bulelwa Mkutukana, has passed away in a Johannesburg hospital.
The announcement was made by the country’s Culture Minister, Zizi Kodwa, who revealed that Zahara had been in the hospital due to liver complications, and the government had been assisting the family.
I am very saddened by the passing of @ZaharaSA. My deepest condolences to the Mkutukana family and the South African music industry. Government has been with the family for some time now. Zahara and her guitar made an incredible and lasting impact in South African music. pic.twitter.com/1a402aQfLs
— Minister of Sport, Arts & Culture (@zizikodwa) December 11, 2023
Zahara gained fame in 2011 with her album “Loliwe” and had a significant impact on South African music. In 2019, she opened up about her struggle with alcohol addiction.
Despite her personal challenges, Zahara used her platform to address issues such as violence against women in South Africa, drawing from her own experiences.
She leaves behind a legacy of beautiful music, having released five albums and won numerous awards. Fans are mourning her passing and celebrating her impactful contributions to the music industry and social causes.