South African Music Icon Zahara Dies at 35

South African Afro-pop singer, Bulelwa Mkutukana, popularly known as Zahara is dead.

The award-winning singer, who was hospitalized, died on Monday night after reported liver complications.

She had been in a Johannesburg hospital, reportedly with liver complications.

In November, Zahara’s family affirmed she had been admitted to the hospital.

The country’s Minister of Sport, Arts & Culture, Zizi Kodwa, on Tuesday revealed “Government has been with the family for some time now” while expressing sadness over the passing of the singer.


“My deepest condolences to the Mkutukana family and the South African music industry. Zahara and her guitar made an incredible and lasting impact on South African music,” Kodwa added.

Zahara, who had so far released five albums, was named BBC’s 100 Women list in 202o. She also won several awards and recognitions.

The late artiste had in 2019 disclosed she battled with alcohol addiction.

However, as of the time of filing this, the family has yet to release any statement.