Late Spice FM presenter Edward Kwach has been named a national hero posthumously in recognition of his contribution to Kenyan broadcasting and the creative arts.
Kwach, whose full name was Edward Kwach Carey Francis, was honoured in the arts category of the National Heroes 2026 publication prepared for Mashujaa Day on October 20, 2026.
In its citation, the National Heroes Council credited him with helping shape FM broadcasting through his distinctive voice, humour and knowledge of music, qualities that made him a respected figure in Kenyan radio entertainment.
Beyond his influence on the airwaves, the council recognised his role in mentoring younger presenters and contributing to the creative arts through voice-over work, theatre and entertainment.
Kwach died on April 28, 2025, aged 52, while receiving treatment at a Nairobi hospital. His family said he had been treated for meningitis, a development that came after he had publicly appealed for blood donations shortly before his death, prompting an outpouring of support from fans and colleagues.
At the time, he was hosting the Spice Drive programme on Spice FM, a station owned by Standard Group, where he had continued a broadcasting career spanning more than two decades.
His career had taken him through several major Kenyan radio stations, including Capital FM, Homeboyz Radio, Nation FM and Spice FM.
However, his contribution to entertainment extended beyond radio. His journey in broadcasting had roots in theatre, where he performed at Phoenix Players, before going on to influence other areas of the creative industry.
Following his death, a memorial service was held at All Saints Cathedral in Nairobi on May 8, 2025. During the service, Standard Group Chief Executive Editor Chaacha Mwita described him as a trailblazer whose voice had become a trusted companion to many listeners.
Other tributes reflected the breadth of his influence. Classic 105 presenter Maina Kageni, a longtime friend, said meeting Kwach was among the best things to happen to him, while Principal Secretary for Internal Security Raymond Omollo described him as a legend of radio and the stage.
His brother, Dudu Kwach, also highlighted his role in opening doors for others in the entertainment industry, saying he had introduced people to voice-over work and bit-part film roles.
Another Phoenix Players alumnus, Ian Mbugua, is among the living honourees in the arts category of the 2026 publication.