Gospel DJ Karumba Ngatia, popularly known as DJ Krowbar, has paid a touching tribute to his late wife, Joyce Wanjiru Karumba, days after her death following a prolonged illness.
Speaking during her memorial service held at Nairobi Chapel on Tuesday, DJ Krowbar opened up about his grief, sharing intimate moments that defined their marriage and Joyce’s unwavering belief in his future.
“I am gonna miss this girl,” he said, his voice breaking as he struggled to hold back tears.
“Yesterday I didn’t sleep. I was just going through all the photos and videos, everything.”
@nairobi_juice Dj Krowbar’s emotional tribute to his lafe wife Joyce Wanjiru – “I’m gonna miss this girl, and to our Children, this is going to be our best year yet” #kenyans #tiktokkenya #nairobitiktokers ♬ original sound – Nairobi_Juice
The celebrated DJ recalled a video taken just days after their wedding anniversary in Cape Town, which he stumbled upon during the sleepless night.
In the clip, Joyce encouraged him as he worked on an academic assignment, confidently assuring him that better days lay ahead.
“She was telling me that the year was really tough, but this is the best year we’ve ever had. She was telling me, you are going to graduate, and that education is going to save lives,” Krowbar said.
He noted that her words later came to pass when he secured a teaching opportunity, something he believes Joyce foresaw long before he did.
Overcome with emotion, DJ Krowbar described his wife as his biggest cheerleader.
Despite the pain of loss, the DJ said he remains anchored in faith and is determined to honour Joyce’s legacy through the lives of their three children, Toria, Riri and Imani.
“Fortunately for you, you have a strong-willed father. This is going to be our best year yet. I don’t know how, but I am speaking this. To my family, friends and community, this is going to be our best year yet,” he said.
DJ Krowbar also expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support the family has received, saying Joyce will be remembered for her strength, optimism and quiet impact on those around her.
Joyce passed away in the early hours of January 26, 2026, after battling chronic kidney complications, a fight the DJ has previously described as long and painful, but filled with faith and hope.
Online, social media users overwhelmingly consoled the DJ and his family.
“This man truly loved his wife and wasn’t afraid to show it. This hurts deeply. May God comfort you,” wrote Miss Kendi.
“May God give DJ Krowbar and his children peace that surpasses any human understanding,” added Cathy Kamau.