On April 29, Kenya’s media fraternity and listeners across the nation were plunged into mourning following the announcement of the death of veteran radio personality Edward Kwach.

The family spokesperson, Michael Okwiri, delivered the heartbreaking news in a statement, confirming that Kwach passed away on the night of April 28, 2025, after a battle with meningitis.

The announcement, first shared by Pearl Radio Kenya via a post on X, sent shockwaves through the country, prompting an outpouring of grief from colleagues, fans, and industry leaders who celebrated Kwach’s indelible mark on Kenyan radio.

Edward Kwach, a towering figure in Kenya’s broadcasting landscape, was renowned for his deep baritone voice, intellectual approach, and impeccable taste in music. His career, spanning over two decades, saw him grace some of the country’s most prominent stations, including Capital FM, Kiss FM, Easy FM, Spice FM, and Urban Radio Kisumu.

Starting in 1996 at Capital FM, Kenya’s first independent radio station, Kwach quickly became a household name, captivating audiences with his wit, humor, and engaging on-air presence. His journey was not without challenges, including publicized struggles with alcohol that led to dismissals from stations like Kiss FM and Urban Radio. Yet, his resilience and passion for radio saw him make triumphant comebacks, most notably at Spice FM, where he hosted a thought-provoking show until his hospitalization earlier this month.

It is with deep sorrow that the Spice FM family announces the untimely passing of our beloved Spice Drive presenter, Edward Kwach. Our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him. May his soul rest in eternal peace. #RIPKwach pic.twitter.com/YGVlMWFrKC

Kwach’s influence extended beyond his voice. He was a mentor to many in the industry, including Maina Kageni, one of Kenya’s most celebrated radio personalities. Kageni, who worked alongside Kwach at KISS FM, credited him as a guiding force in his career. In a heartfelt thread, Kageni recalled their interactions,

“Then we started a radio show together on Kiss 100 alongside Arjun Vidyarthi then Cess Mutungi…. and I realised that I was working with a broadcast genius…. Edward, I’ve said this oh so often – you were the greatest radio personality Kenya has ever produced……” Kageni’s tribute echoed the sentiments of many who saw Kwach as a pioneer who shaped modern Kenyan radio.

Kwach’s recent projects included hosting a show on Spice FM under the Standard Media Group, where his intellectual discussions and mature content resonated with listeners seeking depth in radio programming. Prior to that, he made a notable return to the airwaves in 2020 at Urban Radio Kisumu, co-hosting The Last Link with Brian Oduor and Chris Okinda. His dynamic presence and ability to spark meaningful conversations kept him relevant in an ever-evolving industry.

The news of Kwach’s passing came after a public appeal for blood donations by media personality Caroline Mutoko on April 12, 2025. Mutoko, a former colleague from their time at Kiss FM, shared that Kwach was admitted to Coptic Hospital in Nairobi with critically low iron and hemoglobin levels, requiring urgent medical support. Despite the overwhelming response from Kenyans who donated blood and sent messages of encouragement, Kwach’s condition deteriorated, leading to his untimely death.

Renowned sports journalist Carol Radull, who shared a long-standing friendship with Kwach, expressed her devastation in a post on X: “Heartbreaking. A colleague and a friend. Rest in peace Edward Kwach .” The Standard Group, Kwach’s last employer through their affiliate station Spice FM, expressed profound sorrow at his passing in an official statement posted on their social media platforms: “It is with deep sorrow that the Spice FM family announces the untimely passing of our beloved Spice Drive presenter, Edward Kwach. Our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him. May his soul rest in eternal peace. #RIPKwach.”

Kwach’s family expressed gratitude for the public’s support during his illness, particularly those who donated blood or visited him in hospital. They announced that funeral and memorial arrangements would be shared at a later date, allowing the nation time to process the loss of a man whose voice was synonymous with Kenyan radio. The celebrity radio host’s journey was one of passion, perseverance, and an unwavering love for the airwaves; leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire broadcasters and listeners alike.