The family of the late Afro-pop sensation Bulelwa "Zahara" Mkutukana has voiced its outrage over a planned tribute concert, alleging they were deliberately excluded from the event despite its scale and apparent backing from significant stakeholders. The "Bo Zahara" concert, slated for December 13, 2025, at the Kuhle Lodge and Wedding Resort in Mooiplaats, Donkerhoek, outside Pretoria, features a line-up of prominent South African musicians, including The Muffinz, Sino Msolo, Nathi, Le Mpendulo, Phindile The Soul Provider, and KatieTheSingeR.
According to event organiser Le Mpendulo Mahlangu from Le’s Occasions, the concert is an independent initiative. "This is an independent tribute event produced by Le’s Occasions. It is not officially affiliated with or endorsed by Zahara’s family, estate, or record label," Mahlangu stated. He added that the concert aims to "bring together other black South African guitarists, who were inspired by Zahara, to continue to pave the way for future generations."
However, Zahara’s older sister, Bandezwa Mkutukana, has strongly criticised the organisers for what she perceives as a blatant disregard for the family’s feelings and rights. "We know nothing about this event. I am so shocked," she told Sunday World. Her sentiments reflect a deep frustration and a sense of exploitation.
"We are tired of people using Bulelwa’s name to make a profit," Bandezwa explained. "Yes, she was loved by many. But you cannot host an entire tribute concert sponsored by the government and not include her family. This is very disrespectful."
Bandezwa highlighted the potential financial implications of the event, noting the presence of various sponsor logos on promotional materials. "These are big acts, meaning imali inkulu (big money) was allocated to whomever for this event. Either bayeyenza and the family benefits or they cancel it altogether. With all the logos in the flyers, it shows they have sponsors and they are getting funded. Meaning they are eating using my sister’s name, and we are not benefiting a cent from it."
The family's grievance extends beyond this specific concert. Bandezwa revealed that this is not an isolated incident, stating, "It is not the first time her name has been used by event organisers in her supposed honour." She recounted a recent incident where a group of women visited the family claiming to be paying their respects on what would have been Zahara’s birthday, further illustrating the constant attention and, in their view, exploitation surrounding Zahara's legacy.
The Mkutukana family is now demanding that Le’s Occasions either cancel the event or ensure the family’s meaningful involvement. This ultimatum is supported by Lisa Gwengxeka, Zahara’s former Personal Assistant, who is also calling for transparency and respect. "They must cancel or involve the family or the Zahara army will stage a protest," Gwengxeka asserted.
The "Zahara Army," a collective of influencers, fans, and close friends of the late singer, is mobilising to support the family's demands. They are planning to "boycott the event" if the family is not included. "Unless her family is involved, we plan to make sure it doesn’t go ahead. You cannot use her name and not include her family. No one knows anything about this," Gwengxeka emphasised.
Gwengxeka also pointed out the significance of the logos from the Sports, Arts and Culture department, as well as the City Of Tshwane, suggesting substantial backing for the event. "This means it’s a serious event. All the artists on the line-up do not come cheap," she added.
Zahara, who passed away recently, would have celebrated her 38th birthday on November 9. Gwengxeka expressed her disappointment that even after Zahara’s death, issues of disrespect and exploitation continue to plague her legacy. "I am quite close with the family, and they still get me to do some work related to her brand. And I was not informed about it. It’s disappointing to still be dealing with issues of people who don’t respect her name even after her passing."
The controversy surrounding the "Bo Zahara" concert raises important questions about the ethical considerations of tribute events and the rights of artists' families in preserving their loved ones' legacies. As the planned date for the concert approaches, the pressure mounts on Le’s Occasions to address the Mkutukana family’s concerns and avoid a potential boycott that could undermine the event's purpose.
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