Emotions ran high in the village of Simenya on Saturday as hundreds gathered to bid a final farewell to veteran radio presenter Edward Kwach, who succumbed to meningitis on April 28 while undergoing treatment at a Nairobi hospital.
A large crowd made up of members of the Fourth Estate, religious leaders, family, residents, and political figures, led by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, thronged the quiet village to honor the celebrated voice of Kenya’s airwaves.
Kwach’s mother, Emma Phelesiah Kwach, fought back tears as she delivered an emotional tribute, describing her son as more than just a broadcaster, he was her closest confidant.
“He was special, my best friend, and he knew me,” she said. “He was a star.”
She recalled how Edward, even when being reprimanded, would gently remind her that he couldn’t afford to lose his voice, his most valuable asset and his livelihood.
Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, in his tribute, hailed Kwach as a trailblazer in Kenyan radio.
“Edward Carey Francis Kwach was a true icon of our airwaves, a veteran broadcaster whose voice became part of our lives and memories,” Nyong’o stated. “His contribution to radio journalism in Kenya left an indelible mark. He inspired generations with his eloquence, wit, and unwavering dedication.”
Kwach, son of the esteemed Justice Richard Otieno Kwach, enjoyed a long and decorated career across multiple top tier stations including Capital FM, Kiss 100, Urban Radio, Homeboyz Radio, and most recently Spice FM.
As his casket was lowered into the ground, tears flowed freely from the hundreds in attendance, a testament to a man whose voice once resonated across the nation and now echoes in memory.
