The renowned South African Afro-pop artist, Bulelwa Mkutukana, widely known as Zahara, has passed away, as announced by the country’s Culture Minister.
Zahara, celebrated for her award-winning album “Loliwe” in 2011, had been undergoing medical treatment in connection with liver complications, with government support extended to her family during this challenging period, according to Sports, Arts, and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa.
In 2019, Zahara candidly discussed her struggle with alcohol addiction, shedding light on her personal battles. Last month, her family confirmed her hospitalization and requested the South African community to keep her in their thoughts and prayers.
The news of Zahara’s passing emerged on Monday night in a Johannesburg hospital, as reported by the state-run SABC news website. Although an official statement from the family is pending, fans have already begun expressing their grief and sharing cherished memories on social media.
“Zahara and her guitar made an incredible and lasting impact in South African music,” Mr Kodwa posted on X (formerly Twitter).
“She left us with such beautiful music,” one X user posted.
Having produced five albums and receiving numerous awards, both domestically and internationally, Zahara earned a spot on the BBC’s 100 Women list in 2020. Beyond her musical achievements, Zahara utilized her influential platform to address the issue of violence against women in South Africa, courageously sharing her own experiences with such incidents.
In a radio interview last year, Zahara emphasized that her musical pursuits were driven not by a quest for recognition but rather by a sincere desire to offer solace to troubled souls in need of healing.