As the birthday of the late South African music icon, Bulelwa “Zahara” Mkutukana, approaches, a growing rift between her family and friends has cast a shadow over how best to celebrate her life. The beloved Loliwe hitmaker, who passed away ten months ago, would have turned 37 in November 2024. However, as reported by the popular online publication Briefly News, conflicting views on how and where to honour her memory have sparked tensions between her family in the Eastern Cape and her close friends in Johannesburg.
The divide centers on two separate celebrations planned in honour of Zahara. Her family, particularly her mother, Nokhaya Mkutukana, believes the only fitting way to mark her heavenly birthday is with a gathering in East London, Zahara’s hometown. Meanwhile, her friends, led by her trusted assistant Lisa Gwengxeka, feel it is appropriate to hold a smaller, more intimate celebration in Johannesburg, a city that played a significant role in the singer’s life and career.
Nokhaya Mkutukana voiced her frustration, saying, “If her friends truly loved her as much as they claim, they would come to East London. We can’t have two separate events; we should come together to celebrate my daughter.” Her words echo the sentiment of a grieving mother, eager to honour her daughter’s life where it all began—in the Eastern Cape.
In contrast, Lisa Gwengxeka defended the Johannesburg celebration, explaining that not everyone in Zahara’s inner circle has the means to travel to the Eastern Cape. “We’re not trying to cause tension. Zahara loved her birthdays, and we always celebrated in Johannesburg. We’ll be honoring her in true Zahara style, and I’ve already communicated this with the family,” Lisa shared. Her remarks point to a desire to keep Zahara’s spirit alive in the way her friends and colleagues experienced her.
This brewing division highlights not just the logistical challenges of coordinating a memorial, but also the emotional complexities of grief. Zahara’s family, rooted in tradition, understandably wants to commemorate her life in the place she called home. The Eastern Cape holds deep meaning for the Mkutukana family, and in their eyes, it is the only location where Zahara’s legacy should be celebrated.
On the other hand, Zahara’s friends argue that the artist’s heart was split between her hometown and Johannesburg. Lisa’s insistence on hosting a celebration in the city reflects the life Zahara led, surrounded by friends and colleagues who saw her as more than just a singer, but as a joyful spirit who loved to bring people together.
As the tension continues to simmer, one thing is clear: Zahara’s impact on the lives of those around her remains undeniable. The multiple award-winning singer, known for her soulful voice and stirring lyrics, touched millions with her music. Whether celebrated in East London or Johannesburg, her memory will undoubtedly shine brightly on what would have been her 37th birthday.
