In a somber announcement on Tuesday afternoon, Zahara’s family confirmed the untimely passing of the 36-year-old singer on Monday, with her loved ones by her side.
ANC spokesperson, Zizi Kodwa, once again took the lead in disseminating credible information about the upcoming memorial service. He used his official platforms to share a poster, revealing that Zahara’s memory would be commemorated at Rhema Bible Church on Thursday.
Joining in this announcement, DJ Sbu, who formerly served as Zahara’s record label boss, also shared the same poster.
The passing of Zahara has shone a spotlight on her longstanding royalty dispute with TS Records, a matter that has been a point of contention for some time. The songstress had alleged that the record label owed her millions in royalties, a claim vehemently denied by TS Records.
Details of @ZaharaSA’s Memorial Service #RIPZahara @SportArtsCultur @GovernmentZA @SABCNews @eNCA @Newzroom405 @UWFM88_106FM @ukhozi_fm @KayaOnAir @SowetanLIVE pic.twitter.com/MmJ0bcvcaK
— Minister of Sport, Arts & Culture (@zizikodwa) December 13, 2023
Amid this backdrop, the government has stepped in to support Zahara’s grieving family. This has led to increased curiosity surrounding the nature of her funeral. In South Africa, official funerals can vary in level, with special official funerals often declared by the president for “persons of extraordinary credentials” and “distinguished persons.” These funerals can range from state to provincial ceremonies, and the decision often garners significant attention.
Earlier this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa rejected Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s request for a special provincial official funeral for the late rapper Kiernan Forbes, popularly known as AKA.
Similarly, Gqom music pioneer Mandla “Mampintsha” Maphumulo, who passed away in 2022, did not receive a provincial funeral, but the KwaZulu-Natal government provided financial assistance to the family.
As of now, it remains unclear whether Zahara will be granted a provincial funeral or not. However, it appears that Kodwa’s department is committed to supporting the family, irrespective of the final decision.
The passing of Zahara marks a significant loss in the music industry, and her memorial service on Thursday will undoubtedly be a poignant moment for her fans, friends, and family alike. The ongoing royalty dispute serves as a reminder of the complex issues artists can face in the music business, even in the wake of their untimely departures.
