Celebration was the order of the day at Zahara's memorial service.
The late singer and songwriter's family and industry friends gathered to celebrate her life and music journey at Rhema Bible Church in Joburg on Thursday, 14 December.
The Loliwe hitmaker died at the age of 36 after spending weeks in hospital.
Industry stars who attended her memorial service include Mukengerwa Tresor Riziki, Nomcebo Zikode, Somizi Mhlongo, Judiph Sephuma, DJ Sbu, TK Nciza and Premier of Gauteng Panyaza Lesufi.
ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: The rise and fall of Zahara
Musicians such as Dr Malinga, Vusi Nova, Ringo Madlingozi, Judith Sephuma and Brenda Mntambo performed in honour of the late musician.
TV host Unathi Mankayi was the master of ceremony during the celebration of Zahara's life.
She welcomed everyone with gratitude and warmth. The presenter said everyone who came to celebrate Zahara must know that they are here to thank her.
"We are all here to celebrate her life. We must just rejoice and remember her as Bulelwa," she said.
Zahara's hubby Mpho Xaba said they were like friends and shared good memories together. He said he'd lost the greatest part of himself.
He also revealed that he wasn't ready to be in a relationship with a celebrity when Zahara first contacted him.
"She used to tell people, and myself, that I stood her up three times before we started dating. Yes, I did but eventually I came around," he said.
He said he knew everything about Zahara, her highs and lows but the story would be too long if he had to share it with them during the memorial service.
He also revealed that he had two kids, who will miss Zahara dearly.
It was later revealed by Unathi that Mpho had paid lobola for Zahara only a month before her untimely death.
Pastor Sithembiso Mshali said he wishes the singer a peaceful rest. He said he hoped the family would find healing and strength during this difficult time.
"We all start everything with prayer and this is something we will have to do for everyone here. To the family and friends, let's find hope in the Lord," he said.
Simphiwe Mkutukana, Zahara's cousin, said on behalf of the family he would like to welcome everyone who attended the service.
Zahara's sister Lumka Mkutukana, said she was called by the musician's doctor to come and see her. She said they were told that anytime she would pass away.
Lumka said they witnessed her sister take her last breath in hospital.
TV host Somizi Mhlongo said he met Zahara before she even broke records. He said they have failed her as the industry and friends.
"I remember making a joke about her drinking problem. I was just saying litte did i know that she was hurting," he said.
Somizi said he wishes they could have done better for her and not made fun of her.
Zahara's funeral will be held in Phumlani Informal settlement in East London next week Saturday, 23 December.
