KZN premier mourns musician’s death
Zahara is also famous for her duet with People’s Poet Mzwakhe Mbuli, “Nelson Mandela”, which pays tribute to the late struggle icon and first democratically elected President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has joined millions of South Africans who have expressed their shock and sadness at the sudden and untimely passing of multi-award-winning musician Zahara (Bulelwa Mkutukana).
The ‘Loliwe’ and ”Umthwalo Wami’ hitmaker, who used her famous guitar to accompany her inimitable and unmistakable voice in songs, passed away last Monday night at a Gauteng Hospital after a short illness.
Zahara is also famous for her duet with People’s Poet Mzwakhe Mbuli, ‘Nelson Mandela’, which pays tribute to the late struggle icon and first democratically elected president of South Africa, Nelson Mandela.
Premier Dube-Ncube said: “I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Zahara, whose music made a lasting impact to all and sundry. South Africa has been robbed of a talented music maker from whom we still expected many hit songs. Her passing is made worse by the fact that she left us almost a week after we commemorated ten years of Madiba’s passing, to whom she dedicated a very touching and soulful tribute with Mzwakhe Mbuli. Zahara was a shining star of the South African music industry, a gifted singer-songwriter and guitarist who touched millions of hearts with her golden voice and inspiring lyrics.”
She added that although Zahara was born in the Eastern Cape, she was also a revered citizen of KwaZulu-Natal, where she often performed many of her gigs.
The Premiere said Zahara was a role model for many young women, especially from rural areas, who aspire to pursue their dreams and express their musical talents.
“Through her music, Zahara showed young women from Mqanduli, Nongoma, Umlazi and indeed many other far-flung rural villages that musical talent can take you to places – when it is used creatively and properly. On behalf of the provincial government and the people of KwaZulu-Natal, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Zahara’s family, friends, fans and the music fraternity. We share in your grief and we pray for your strength and comfort during this difficult time. We also thank you for sharing Zahara’s life and gift with us and allowing us to celebrate her life and legacy,” said Dube-Ncube.
She added that Zahara was a national treasure and a cultural ambassador who represented South Africa with pride and excellence on the global stage.
The guitarist and songstress won numerous musical awards and accolades, including the South African Music Awards, Metro FM Music Awards, and many more. She also used her platform to raise awareness and support for various social causes, such as HIV/Aids, gender-based violence, and education.
Premier Dube-Ncube said Zahara was a considerate person who cared deeply for the poor and the vulnerable.
“South Africa has lost a musical legend, a heroine, and a friend. Zahara’s music will live on in our hearts and minds, and her spirit will continue to inspire us. Her hit song ‘Umthwalo Wami’ made our physical and psychological burdens lighter, by simply listening to it. Lala ngoxolo, Zahara. Uyibekile induku ebandla. Hamba Kahle Zahara. Your job is done. Well after your exit, millions will for years to come, continue to remember your sterling performances,” said Dube-Ncube.
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