Entertainment
South Africa’s Afro-pop sensation Zahara dies aged 36
Renowned South African Afro-pop sensation Bulelwa Mkutukana, better known as Zahara, has passed away, the country’s Culture Minister confirmed.
Zahara, acclaimed for her 2011 album “Loliwe,” which resonated across Africa, had been hospitalized due to liver complications, with government support extended to her family during this challenging period, according to Minister Zizi Kodwa of Sports, Arts, and Culture.
In 2019, Zahara shared her struggle with alcohol addiction, shedding light on personal challenges. Last month, her family appealed to South Africans for prayers as she battled health issues. Zahara, aged 36, succumbed on Monday night in a Johannesburg hospital, as reported by the state-run SABC news website.
Following the announcement, social media has become a space for fans to grieve and share cherished memories. Minister Kodwa acknowledged Zahara’s profound impact on South African music, stating, “Zahara and her guitar made an incredible and lasting impact in South African music.”
Expressions of admiration for Zahara’s musical legacy flooded X (formerly Twitter), with one user noting, “She left us with such beautiful music.” Over her career, Zahara, who released five albums, garnered numerous local and international accolades.
Beyond her musical achievements, she utilized her platform to address the issue of violence against women in South Africa, drawing from her personal experience.
Zahara’s departure leaves an indelible mark on the world of music, as fans and fellow artists reflect on her impactful journey.
Souirce: africanews.com
Entertainment
Franky 5 is new host of Max Morning Live
Celebrated radio and television personality Frank Kwabena Owusu affectionately called Franky 5 has officially joined the iMAX Media Group.
The renowned presenter is set to light up the screens of Max TV as host of the station’s flagship morning show, Max Morning Live, starting Monday, September 8, 2020, from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m.
Franky 5 brings with him many years of rich experience in media, combining exceptional television and radio presentation skills with a proven track record in event organisation and creative production. His addition promises to deliver an exciting, refreshing experience to viewers of Max TV.
Over the years, Franky 5 has carved a unique niche in the Ghanaian media and showbiz industry with his dynamic and versatile style of presentation. Whether formal or informal, his delivery blends professionalism with an engaging flair that resonates with diverse audiences.
Beyond his on-screen duties, Franky 5 will also serve as Head of Entertainment and Events at iMAX Media Group, where he will play a key role in shaping the station’s entertainment content and driving innovative initiatives.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Entertainment
Osanju is dead
Popular Ghanaian content creator, Elvis Frimpong, known in showbiz circles as Osanju has been reported dead.
According to sources, he was said to have died in the early hours on Monday, September 1, 2025 after a long battle with blood cancer (Leukemia)
His death has been a shock in the Ghanaian community especially coming shortly after his last post.
His demise comes five months after he had laid his mother, Amounu, also a tiktoker, to rest, having lost her in January.
Hours before his passing, he had posted a video on Sunday with friends watching the Barcelona vs. Rayo Vallecano match, prompting many fans to initially dismiss the reports as a hoax.
Osanju’s death has been described as a huge loss by followers who admired his openness, resilience and positive outlook in the face of ill health.
However, Osanju had previously shared his battle with leukemia, a cancer of the blood, on his TikTok account, even eerily predicting his own demise on a couple of occasions.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
