Edward Kwach, a celebrated Standard Group journalist and veteran radio presenter, was remembered Thursday, May 8, as a charismatic figure who lived life loudly and left an indelible mark on Kenya’s media industry.

Family, friends and colleagues gathered at All Saints Cathedral, Nairobi, for a memorial service honouring Kwach, who died Monday, April 28, while undergoing treatment at a local hospital.

He will be buried Saturday.

Justice Richard Otieno Kwach, his father, described Kwach as a determined go-getter. “He had a dream and he chased it and succeeded. He has achieved a lot, he was part of the engine of the family and a very creative person,” said Richard.

His mother, Emma Kwach, recalled the special bond they shared, celebrating birthdays together on March 27 every year.

“I am overwhelmed with sorrow knowing that I will never hear your voice on the radio again, but even so, I get solace that you were loved by so many people,” said Emma.

Richard Kwach, the eldest of four brothers, said Edward stood out for his charisma and love of learning.

“He was a reader, while the rest of us were playing in class six, Carey was busy reading our father’s books, that is where he got to be that articulate,” noted Richard.

Chief Executive Editor at Standard Group PLC, Chaacha Mwita, in a statement read on his behalf, described Kwach as an industrious media professional.

“He was a trailblazer; he posed a rare talent and infectious energy that shaped the landscape of radio. He had an extraordinary ability to connect with listeners all over,” said Mwita.

Representing the media fraternity, Ted Kwaka reflected on Kwach’s open-hearted nature, saying, “He openly expressed his love to his friends and his dreams to empower people.”

Teddy Mutusi, a friend from their St Mary’s days, highlighted Kwach’s grounded character.

“He was grounded and a generous person; he opened doors for many, even those who did not believe in themselves; he lived loudly,” he said.

The service painted a portrait of a man whose larger-than-life presence and creative spirit resonated beyond the microphone, shaping not just airwaves but the lives of those around him.