Your voice first emerged like an idle breeze through the South African airwaves, Quiet yet promising at first, soon gathering in power and glory to swoop and soar - Carrying melodies as sweet as ripened fruit, honeyed notes raining down To nourish our thirsty ears and delight each listening heart.

You sang of hardship and hope, struggle and triumph under apartheid’s bitter reign; Your empowering lyrics wove vivid stories of life that touched us down to our bones. We heard our tales in your words, our tears in your quivering voice; You gave musical voice to our communities’ sorrow and pride.

Though born in the small township of Mthatha, your talent could hardly be contained - It sparkled and shined ever brighter like a diamond kissed by the African sun. The stages called to you and you answered by sharing your gift far and wide; Your soaring voice left no ear untouched, no heart unstirred.

The road was long and tested you with pitfalls plenty along the way - But challenges only strengthened your wings to fly higher than before. You overcame illness, loss, and all the storms of life fate blew your way; Your resilience and passion channeled into song all the more glorious.

Now the final curtain has fallen and your mortal voice joins the ancestors’ choir. But your melodies play on as your spirit lives through unforgettable refrain. Your legacy will echo through coming generations that lift their own voices in song- A testament to music’s immortal power, forever resonant as Time’s tide rolls on.

We bid you heartfelt farewell on tranquil wings, dear Zahara, As tears of sorrow and joy mingle in bittersweet rainbows. Yours was a musical spirit too lustrous and loving to ever be dimmed - A shining light guiding us from above in night’s darkest hour.

May choirs of angels enfold you in their welcoming wings at long last, As you take your place of honor in the heavens’ harmonies ringing clear. Thank you for the gift of your voice, the richness your songs gave our lives - We will keep you close while mourning the world’s loss of a legend gone too soon.