by Thinus Ferreira
The South African singer and songwriter Bulelwa Mkutukana, better known as Zahara died on Monday. She was 35.
The cause of her death has not yet been revealed.
Zizi Kodwa, South Africa's minister of sport, arts and culture, confirmed the artist's death, nothing "I am very saddened by the passing of Zahara. 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."
Warner Music Africa in a statement says it is mourning "the sudden departure of Zahara, the esteemed South African singer-songwriter recognised for her multi-platinum successes and 17-time SAMA-winning impact on the music scene".
Temi Adeniji, Warner Music Africa managing director, says "Zahara was a true music icon, a force whose soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics resonated deeply with fans across South Africa and beyond".
"Our deepest condolences go out to her family, friends and the entire music community during this difficult time."
Zahara was the subject of the reality show Zahara: As I Rise which was broadcast in February on SABC1.
On 27 November her family said in a statement that she was taken to hospital after "physical pain". She has been in hospital for two weeks following liver problems.
Zahara died on Monday night at 22:00 in a Johannesburg hospital with her fiance Mpho Zaba next to her.
