Gospel DJ Krowbar Mourns Wife Joyce Wanjiru Karumba

Joyce Wanjiru Karumba, the wife of gospel DJ Karumba Ngatia, popularly known as DJ Krowbar, died on Monday, 26 January 2026, at 3 a.m., after a long illness.

Joyce had faced ongoing health challenges since mid-2025, when she underwent a kidney transplant. The procedure initially showed positive signs, but she later developed complications. Towards the end of the year, she was treated for an infection that was eventually stabilised, allowing her to return home for a short period. Her condition later worsened, leading to her readmission to hospital, where she died.

Known to family and friends as “Joy”, she was regarded as a woman of strong faith, a devoted wife, and a caring mother. Her perseverance during illness and her commitment to her beliefs were widely acknowledged by those close to her. She is survived by her husband and their three children, Toria, Riri, and Imani.

In a statement, the Karumba family confirmed her death and expressed their grief while drawing comfort from their faith. They quoted Psalm 31:5, which reads: “Into your hands I commit my spirit; deliver me, LORD, my faithful God.”

The family requested prayers and privacy as they make funeral arrangements, which they said would be communicated later. They also thanked friends, supporters, and members of the public for their messages and assistance during Joyce’s illness.

Joyce’s death has been felt beyond her immediate family, particularly within Kenya’s gospel community. It comes during a period when the country continues to mourn the deaths of several public figures, contributing to a broader sense of national loss.

Those wishing to support the family with funeral arrangements may do so through M-PESA Paybill number 4815005, using the reference “Joy Wa Karumba Farewell.”