Bulelwa Mkutukana, known and loved by many as Zahara, has passed away at the age of 36.
The songstress died on Monday night at 21h00 in a private Johannesburg hospital with her fiancé, Mpho Xaba, at her bedside, reports Sunday World.
ZiMoja first reported that the 36-year-old Loliwe hitmaker was rushed to hospital following liver complications. Zahara was initially admitted to a medical ward, but when her condition worsened, she was transferred to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) section of the hospital. A source revealed to the publication that her liver was scarred and that she needed a liver transplant.
Zahara’s family took to Instagram on 27 November share with fans the condition of her health while also asking for their continued support and prayers.
View this post on Instagram
Since news of her death broke, many have taken to social media to send their condolences. The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, took to X (formerly known as Twitter) and shared:
“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.”
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
A source shared with Sunday World that the family will release a statement soon.
Also see: Zahara allegedly hospitalised after liver complications