Zahara’s First Heavenly Birthday Sparks Division Between Family and Friends

Zahara, born Bulelwa Mkutukana, will be remembered on November 9, marking her first heavenly birthday.

However, the celebration of the late South African singer has caused some tension between her family and close friends.

Zahara tragically passed away on December 11, 2023, after battling illness for several weeks. As her 37th birthday approaches, friends of the singer want to honor her in Johannesburg, where she built most of her music career. According to Zimoja, Zahara’s friends plan to host a celebration in the city.

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Her family, however, wishes to celebrate her life in her hometown in the Eastern Cape.

Zahara’s mother, Nokhaya Mkutukana, has expressed her disappointment with the friends’ decision, stating that they should join the family’s celebration to honor her properly.

“If her friends really cared for her, they would join the family’s celebration,” Nokhaya said.

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In Johannesburg, the same day, November 9, Zahara’s fanbase, known as the “Zahara Army,” along with some close friends, will gather for a more intimate celebration at the Decalabash Hotel in Randfontein.

Lisa Gwengxeka, Zahara’s former assistant, explained that the singer loved celebrating her birthday every year, and they plan to continue that tradition.

Lisa also noted that not everyone can afford to travel to the Eastern Cape, so they will host a smaller event in Joburg and have communicated this with her family.

This emotional divide between family and friends highlights how deeply Zahara touched the lives of those who knew her, both personally and through her music.