"You Were Not Just a Son to Me.." Edward Carey Kwach's Mother Delivers Heartbreaking Tribute

A somber mood filled All Saints Cathedral in Nairobi as family and friends gathered on May 8 to celebrate the life of Edward Carey Kwach.

The celebrated radio personality passed away on April 28 after a battle with meningitis.

Among the emotional tributes, Edward’s parents, retired justice Richard Otieno Kwach and his wife, delivered some of the most heartfelt words.

Richard spoke of his son’s profound influence, describing him as a person with a captivating presence.

"If he were anything other than a God-fearing person, you might have compared him to a cult leader," he said, acknowledging Edward’s magnetic personality.

He recalled their final conversation just days before Edward’s death. "The Sunday before Carey passed on, I went to see him. We had a wonderful chat. But as I was leaving, I had a clear impression that his days were numbered," he said, his voice breaking.

Despite the tragedy, Richard expressed pride in his son’s life. "As a family, we are very proud that we produced Edward Carey. That is an achievement," he said.

He shared a personal anecdote about how Edward called him "the Don," a playful nickname they used to communicate in coded conversations.

Richard’s grief was palpable as he said, "We will continue to keep an empty chair around our dining table because we know he will return. Death is terrifying. When it enters your gate, it’s like meeting a very dangerous animal. There is no notice that it is coming."

Edward’s mother, visibly emotional, described her son as her best friend. They shared a special bond, having the same birthday — March 27 — a date they also shared with Edward’s daughter, Xola.

"It still feels like a bad dream that I keep hoping I’ll wake up from," she said, her voice shaking. "This is the hardest thing I have ever had to do. As I mourn you, I also celebrate you."

She recalled their last birthday celebration together, just weeks before Edward’s passing. "We always celebrated our birthday together. This year was no different. We talked and laughed like we always do. But little did I know it would be the last time," she said.

Edward’s mother stressed her son’s discipline and commitment. "You were not just a son to me; you were my confidant and cheerleader," she said.

Edward was a prominent voice in Kenyan radio for over two decades, captivating audiences with his charisma and deep knowledge of music.

He first gained prominence in the early 2000s, working with leading stations like Capital FM, Homeboyz Radio, Nation FM, and Spice FM.

Classic 105 presenter Maina Kageni, who worked with Edward at Kiss 100, described him as "the greatest radio personality Kenya has ever produced."

"Meeting Edward changed my life. He was the greatest radio personality this country has ever seen," Maina said, visibly moved.

Lang’ata MP Jalang’o paid tribute to Edward as a mentor. "Edward once told me, ‘You’re doing radio differently — and that’s what makes you unique.’ Those words stayed with me," Jalang’o said.

Nick Odhiambo, Edward’s cousin, shared how Edward had inspired him to join radio. "We had friendly competition, always trying to outdo each other with our deep voices. It’s sad that some of our plans will not materialize, but I will keep the dream alive," Nick said.

Despite the overwhelming grief, Edward’s parents found solace in their faith. "We know that one day, we will see him again. Until then, we will keep his memory alive," Richard said.