Katlego Sekhu

Multi-award-winning South African singer/songwriter Zahara, real name Bulelwa Mkutukana, has sadly passed away at the age of 36. The news of her passing broke on Monday evening through various news sources.
Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Zizikodwa, confirmed Zahara’s passing on social media, sending his 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,” he tweeted.
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
Zahara’s passing follows her admission to the hospital in November of this year after she complained about having physical pains.
Zahara released her debut album, Loliwe, in 2011, which was sold out within 72 hours. Three weeks later, the album sold more than 100,000 copies, reaching double platinum status in South Africa. This made her the second musician to reach this figure in such record time after Brenda Fassie.
Her accolades include 17 South African Music Awards and one Nigerian Entertainment Award.
Rest In Peace, Zahara!



