South African Music Icon Zahara Dies at 36, Leaving a Legacy of Inspiration and Advocacy
South African Afro-pop icon Bulelwa Mkutukana, known by her stage name Zahara, has sadly passed away at the age of 36. The announcement came from the country’s culture minister, Zizi Kodwa, confirming her death in a Johannesburg hospital on Monday night. Zahara had been battling liver complications and was recently admitted to the hospital, with the government assisting her family during this difficult time.
- RELATED: Zahara – Impilo
- RELATED: Zahara – Loliwe
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Zahara rose to fame in 2011 with her hit album “Loliwe,” which resonated with fans across Africa and earned her a place in the hearts of many. She was not only a celebrated musician but also an advocate who used her platform to address the issue of violence against women in South Africa, a topic she was personally connected to.
Despite her struggles with alcohol addiction, which she openly discussed in 2019, Zahara continued to inspire many with her music. She released five albums throughout her career, winning numerous awards both locally and internationally. In 2020, her impactful contributions to music and society were recognized when she was named in the BBC’s 100 Women list.
Zahara’s family is yet to release an official statement, but fans have already taken to social media to express their grief and share fond memories. Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Kodwa remembered her as someone who “made an incredible and lasting impact in South African music” and a user on X (formerly Twitter) commented, “She left us with such beautiful music.”
Zahara’s legacy is marked by her heartfelt music and her efforts to bring comfort to those in need of healing. Her passing is a significant loss to the music world and to all who were touched by her artistry and advocacy.
