‘She was pure light, a gift’ - Zahara's family pays tribute

The multi-award-winning AfroPop star died on Monday at the age of 36.

In a moving statement, the family said their beloved daughter, sister, and friend was surrounded by loved ones when she took her last breath.

The family described Zahara as a pure light, with an even purer heart.

"A legendary figure in the world of music, Zahara remarkably touched millions of people’s lives with her extraordinary gift and passion for music. She leaves behind an indelible mark on the music industry and a legacy that will forever resonate in our hearts and souls.

“A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered," read the family statement.

The  Mkutukana family said  Zahara left no sorrow, only stories of healing, joy, kindness, and inspiration through her life and her music.

"May she rest in eternal peace, and may her melodies continue to echo in our hearts forever."

South African music lovers and fellow artists also took to social media to express their deepest empathies.

South African singer and songwriter Lady Zamar said Zahara did a lot for the music industry in South Africa.

" …paved the way for so many others with her icon presence and guitar in hand, she will be missed. I never knew her personally but her music was loud and brave #ripzahara praying for her family, she was loved," wrote Zamar.

Another artist, Zoe Madiga, also shared her message of condolences "When usis Zahara released her debut, if you were a black female singer who happened to play guitar you were called, “Zahara” like a rites of passage. May your soul find peace sisi, your name is etched in South African history. Sending so much love to family, loved ones and fans," she said.