By East Coast Radio

SOUTH Africa’s Arts and Culture Department’s Minister, Nathi Mthethwa has paid tribute to the Zimbabwe’s cultural icon, following the news of his death. 

The 66-year-old father of five passed away at a hospital in Harare Wednesday. It’s reported he’d been battling diabetes.

Mtukudzi worked and performed together with late music icon, Hugh Masekela, who died on the same day last year. 

With a collection of 67 albums, he’s known for his 1993 hit, Neria. 

He’s also collaborated with Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Ringo Madlingozi and Joss Stone. 

A short statement on Mtukudzi’s official Facebook page said the family is taking time to come to terms with the shocking loss.  

Commenting on Twitter, minister Mthethwa said;