DJ Krowbar Wanjiru Karumba’s wife dies after kidney transplant

DJ Crowbar’s wife, Joyce Wanjiru Karumba, passed away on Monday, January 26, following health complications
The mother of three had undergone a kidney transplant in 2025 but later experienced health challenges.
The family has appealed to Kenyans to pray for them, to give them some privacy, and to help pay for the funeral

Renowned entertainer in Kenya, DJ Krowbar, born as Fredrick Karumba, together with his family mourn the death of his wife, Joyce Wanjiru Karumba.

In a statement released by the family, Wanjiru died at dawn on Monday, January 26, after experiencing complications from a kidney transplant he had undergone in 2025.

“It is with great sadness that we confirm the death of Ms Joyce Wanjiru Karumba, the beloved wife of popular gospel DJ Karumba Ngatia, popularly known as DJ Krowbar. Known to many as Joy, she was called home to be with the Lord at nine o’clock in the morning on Monday, January 26, 2026,” part of the statement read.

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According to the family, Joyce showed great courage and steadfast faith throughout her long and difficult health journey.

Although he initially recovered after a kidney transplant, he later developed other complications, including an infection at the end of last year that was treated.

However, more health challenges emerged in recent weeks, forcing him to return to the hospital after being allowed to return home for about two weeks.

“She faced health challenges with courage and unwavering faith,” the family added.

Joyce is survived by her beloved husband, DJ Krowbar, and their three children — Toria, Riri, and Imani — who described her as a pillar of love, perseverance, and hope in the family.

Despite the great sadness they have, the family said they continue to hold on to faith, comforted by the belief that he is now in eternal peace.

“Although we are deeply saddened by this great tragedy, we are relieved to know that he is now in perfect peace. We urge you to pray for his comfort and we will appreciate being given some time to ourselves as we prepare for his final journey,” the family said, adding that funeral information would be released later.

The family also expressed their sincere thanks to all who sent condolences and showed support, and asked them to continue to pray for them during this difficult time.