Tributes pour in as Edward Kwach, a voice that shaped Kenyan radio, falls silent

Kenyan radio industry is mourning the loss of one of its brightest stars, Edward "Carey Francis" Kwach.

By Maureen Kinyanjui
Tuesday, April 29, 2025

The sudden passing of Edward Kwach has left a void in the radio industry, but his legacy will continue to inspire the many broadcasters he mentored and influenced.

The Kenyan radio industry is mourning the loss of one of its brightest stars, Edward "Carey Francis" Kwach.

Tributes from colleagues, friends, and fans have been pouring in, with Kwach being remembered as a legend, a mentor, and a cherished friend whose voice and influence shaped the airwaves for decades.

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Mike Mondo, a fellow radio presenter, was among the first to express his grief. “Rest well, my good Friend: a legend, a brother, and so much more. You will be dearly missed,” he posted on social media.

Mondo fondly recalled their moments together, especially the iconic Christmas balcony moments that he said would always be remembered.

Jalang'o (Phelix Odiwuor), another prominent radio personality who is the Member of Parliament for Langata, highlighted his role as a mentor and a friend.

"Edward once told me, 'You’re doing radio differently and that’s what makes you unique.’ Those words stayed with me," Jalang'o wrote, adding that Kwach’s impact on the radio industry extended beyond his broadcast talent.

“Today, I honour the man who didn’t just set the standard, he was the standard,” he continued.

Classic FM presenter Maina Kageni shared his reflections, recalling the energy and passion that Kwach brought to the studio.

"One of the best things to ever happen to me was meeting Edward Carey Francis Kwach," Kageni said. “His energy and go-getter attitude certainly rubbed off on us,” he added, reminiscing about the times they worked together on a radio show at Kiss 100.

"I realised that I was working with a broadcast genius."

Mwalimu Churchill from Classic FM, another colleague, described Kwach as "The Voice" and "The Punchline Master," noting that he never had the chance to share a mic with him. "His contribution to the radio industry will never be forgotten."

Journalist Ken Mijungu also reflected on his time working with Kwach, describing him as a reclusive figure who nonetheless made time to connect with those around him.

“As difficult as he was, to me, he was a good man. RIP EK, you made your mark,” Mijungu said.

The sudden passing of Edward Kwach has left a void in the radio industry, but his legacy will continue to inspire the many broadcasters he mentored and influenced.

Kwach had been admitted to Coptic Hospital earlier this month in critical condition, and despite a public call for blood donations to help stabilise his condition, he passed away after a brave battle with the illness.