Kenyan musician and digital content creator David Karanja, widely known as Raj Banema, has shared the devastating news of his beloved wife Josephine Wairimu’s death.
Taking to his official social media channels on Thursday, July 3, 2025, Raj Banema said that his wife passed away after a short illness, noting that the world they had built together, a life filled with love and shared dreams, had been plunged into sudden grief.
Speaking from a place of unimaginable pain, Banema described Wairimu as the cornerstone of their home, adding that her kindness, laughter and unwavering strength filled their family.
“I am heartbroken to share that my beloved wife, Josephine Wairimu, passed away on Thursday, July 3, 2025, after a short illness. I am still in shock at the sudden loss of the person I loved, cherished, and built our life around. Her kindness, laughter, and unwavering strength filled our home with joy, and I will carry her memory with me always” he announced.
Wairimu leaves behind their most precious gift: their baby son, Keith Banema, whom Raj vowed to shield and nurture in the warmth of her spirit.
“Though she has gone from our sight, she leaves behind our precious baby, Keith Banema, whom I will love and protect with all my heart, now and for infinity. I promise to honour her legacy every day by raising our child in the warmth of her spirit and love,” he disclosed.
Banema, in addition, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support.
“Thank you for your prayers, support, and understanding during this unimaginably difficult time. Your compassion means more than words can say,” he added.
Who is Banema
Banema is a Kenyan musician and digital content creator known for his contributions to Kikuyu-language music and cultural preservation. His work often highlights themes of heritage, identity, and community.
Banema blends gospel and secular music, remixing and breathing new life into old songs with his guitar and programmed beats.
His breakthrough performance was a cover of “Airitu a Ndeiya” (Ndeiya girls), originally by the Super Ndeiya band. After its release, his bookings skyrocketed within a month, including appearances on the radio and in entertainment joints.
