'She was a pure light': Family in mourning after Zahara's death

"It is with heavy hearts and deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved daughter, sister, and friend, Zahara," read a statement by her family posted on her Instagram page on Tuesday.

The South African singer, real name Bulelwa Mkutukana, died on Monday. Although the cause of her death has not been revealed, it came about two weeks after she was admitted to hospital, reportedly for liver complications.

According to the statement, Zahara was surrounded by her family and loved ones when she died.

"She was a pure light, and an even purer heart, in this world - a beacon of hope, a gift, and a blessing to us and countless people around the world," the statement said.

"A legendary figure in the world of music, Zahara remarkably touched millions of people's lives with her extraordinary gift and passion for music," it continued.

"A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. May we remember Zahara not with sorrow, but with stories of healing, joy, kindness, and inspiration she brought to us through her life and her music," it read further.

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

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