Emotions ran high yesterday as the body of Edward Kwach was laid to rest at his home in Simenya, Ugunja.
In glowing tributes, relatives, friends, and colleagues mourned the deceased as a talented journalist, charismatic, articulate, a reader, extremely entertaining, and a powerful voice of the voiceless in radio.
They described his demise as a big loss to the media fraternity as his colleagues recounted his skills, which made him standout in the newsroom.
His mother, Emma Kwach, described him as her best friend and a blessing who came to the world on her birthday.
“Carey ,You were not just my son ,you were my best friend.You never answered me back no matter what I said to you.You would always end it with a smile and that one word: “Jaber.”
You never called me mummy, you called me queen or Jaber,” she remembered.
His brother Shaka Kwach said his brother grew beyond anything they ever imagined he would be.
“You raised the profile of radio in Kenya to heights I hope others will reach. I also hope will be properly rewarded, especially as we enter an age where the creative industry must thrive in the era of Artificial Intelligence,” said his brother.
In a statement, Standard Group Chief Executive Editor Chaacha Mwita described him as a mentor to young journalists.
His sudden departure is a devastating blow to his immediate colleagues at Spice FM and the Standard Group PLC at large, and in deed the broadcast fraternity in Kenya. The void he leaves will be difficult to fill,” said Mwita.
ODM leader Raila Odinga said his demise is a big blow to the media industry in the country.
Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of performance and delivery Management Eliud Owalo described him as a pioneer radio presenter.
“His death is a great loss to the entire country. He was a great talent in the media industry,” said Owalo.
Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o and his spouse Dorothy Nyong’o said the late journalist made significant contribution to broadcast journalism.
“His contribution to radio journalism in Kenya left an indelible mark, inspiring generations with eloquence, wit, and unwavering dedication to informing and entertaining the public,” said Nyong’o.