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Zahara, the acclaimed South African Afro-pop singer also known as Bulelwa Mkutukana, has passed away, as announced by the country’s Culture Minister. The 36-year-old artist had been hospitalized, reportedly due to liver complications, with the government providing assistance to her family. Zahara gained widespread recognition in 2011 with her beloved album, Loliwe, celebrated throughout Africa.

In 2019, she openly discussed her struggles with alcohol addiction. Last month, her family confirmed her hospitalization, urging South Africans to keep her in their prayers. Zahara’s demise occurred on Monday night in a Johannesburg hospital.

Although an official statement from her family is awaited, fans are expressing grief and sharing cherished memories on social media. The Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, acknowledged Zahara’s impactful contribution to South African music, stating, “Zahara and her guitar made an incredible and lasting impact in South African music.”

Known for her soulful music, Zahara released five albums and garnered numerous local and international awards. In 2020, she was included in the BBC’s 100 Women list. Beyond her musical achievements, Zahara used her platform to speak out against violence targeting women in South Africa, drawing from her own experiences.

In a radio interview last year, Zahara emphasized that her music aimed not for recognition but to bring solace to broken souls in need of healing. Her legacy as a talented artist and advocate for social issues leaves an indelible mark on the African music scene.