South African Afro-pop sensation Bulelwa Mkutukana, famously known as Zahara, has died, as confirmed by the country’s culture minister.
She had been hospitalized due to reported liver complications, and government support had been extended to her family during this challenging period, according to Sports, Arts, and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa.
Zahara gained immense popularity in 2011 with her widely acclaimed album, Loliwe, which resonated deeply across Africa.
Despite her musical success, she openly addressed her struggle with alcohol addiction in 2019. Last month, her family had confirmed her hospitalization, requesting prayers from South Africans.
The talented musician breathed her last on Monday night at a Johannesburg hospital, marking her departure at the age of 36, as reported by the state-run SABC news website.
While an official statement from her family is awaited, fans have been mourning her loss and sharing cherished memories on various social media platforms.
Reflecting on Zahara’s legacy, Mr. Kodwa expressed, “Zahara and her guitar made an incredible and lasting impact in South African music.”
Supporters also paid tribute, with one user sharing, “She left us with such beautiful music.”
Zahara, who released five albums, garnered numerous awards both locally and internationally.
Her influence extended beyond music, using her platform to raise awareness about violence against women in South Africa, drawing from her own experiences.
Speaking in a local radio interview last year, Zahara emphasized that her music was not merely for acclaim but aimed to provide solace to troubled hearts in need of healing.
Source-BBC
