Exclusive| Zahara’s family sadly scrambles to cover funeral costs
Zahara is the most recent musician to pass away in poverty without having a funeral plan.
According to a news publication, the family was unable to pay for the funeral costs.
Zahara passed away on Monday at a private hospital in Randburg due to complications with her liver. At the time of her death age was 36.
Her family had to quickly to find an undertaker in Gauteng who could hold her body until it was ready to be taken to her family home in Eastern Cape after the news of her death spread.
When the family went to knocking on the doors of different government offices for financial assistance, they were informed that all of them had run out of money because it was the end of the year.
According to reports, after learning about the family’s financial challenges, former TS Records owner Thembinkosi “TK” Nciza offered to cover all funeral expenses.
However, they told him exactly where to get off and that they had no business dealing with the former music boss.
Afterwards, it was decided that Icebolethu Funerals could help with the catering—but only for the Thursday memorial service.
An unnamed spokesperson from the undertaker in Tsakani revealed that they had received a call from a family friend requesting that her remains be kept there.
Zahara died poor
“At this point, I have a feeling that I might not recoup the R100,000 expenses incurred.
“This ranges from storage, a coffin, embalming of the body, transportation to the airport and her home. The family friend that approached us said we will talk after the funeral,” said the representative.
The funeral home has been cleared of the body. After making a stop at her Roodepoort residence, the funeral cortege went to OR Tambo International Airport to transport to Zahara to her family’s residence in Eastern Cape.
On the death certificate the musician’s death is stated as natural and her registration is single.
According to reports, her partner was still owing a balanced of R30,000 for the lobola. Two days after their traditional wedding, she became ill and was admitted to the hospital.
When comment was asked from Zahara’s spouse, he expressed his preference to use this period to celebrate her life.
“We will entertain all the other politics much later, after her funeral,” he said.