Edward Kwach: Farewell to radio trailblazer

The life of Edward Carey Francis Kwach, a revered voice in radio, was celebrated in a moving service at the All Saints Cathedral in Nairobi yesterday.

Family, friends, colleagues and fans came to bid farewell to a man whose influence stretched beyond the airwaves.

Known for his wit, charisma and unforgettable voice, the death of Kwach on April 28, after a short illness, left a deep void in the hearts of many.

At the time of his death, Kwach was a radio presenter at Spice FM, one of the radio stations under the Standard Group Plc.

His life was celebrated in tears and words that recalled him as a radiant soul, a pioneer in local radio broadcasting, a relentless creative spirit, and above all, a beloved son, brother and friend.

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  Remembering Edward Kwach

As his family and colleagues took turns to share tributes, they painted the portrait of a man who lived life to the fullest, loved and was generous.

Born in Nairobi on March 27, 1973, to Justice (Rtd) Richard Otieno Kwach and Emma Phelesiah, Carey, as he was known by the family, chose an unconventional path.

Although he began law studies at the University of Western Cape, South Africa, his heart was elsewhere.

The Don

The father described his son as a lively and fun-loving, fondly remembering him as the family’s nickname-giver, the one who affectionately called him “The Don”.

He said despite the fungal meningitis, the son never lost his warmth.

His mother remembered how he called her “the Queen” or “Jaber.“ “Carey, you were not just my son, you were my best friend. You never answered me back, no matter what I said. You would always end it with a smile and that one word: ‘Jaber’,” she said.

His journey in radio began in theatre at the popular Phoenix Players before transitioning into a broadcasting career that saw his baritone capture his fans at the Capital FM, Kiss FM, Nation FM, and finally Spice FM.

Passion

“You were the trailblazer amongst us brothers. You introduced us to the hustle; voice-overs, bit-part movie roles, even helping me understand music. You lived life to the full and seized the day without procrastination,” said Dudu Kwach, his brother.

Standard Group Chief Executive Editor Chaacha Mwita recognised Kwach’s passion and influence across East African radio.

“Edward Kwach was not merely a presenter; he was a trailblazer. His influence transcended the confines of any single station. His voice was a trusted companion to countless individuals, a source of comfort, entertainment and insight,” said Mwita in the tributes read on his behalf by Edwin Kwambai, head of radio.

Beyond acting and broadcasting, Kwach was a dedicated music fan who could sing along most songs by popular music groups like The Jackson 5, Kool & the Gang and Boyz II Men.

The preacher related his journey to that of Paul, the unconventional path that was at times misunderstood, but ultimately purposeful.