David Kekana Biography: Cause of Death, Nationality, Parents, Siblings, Wife, Age & Net Worth

David Kekana was a well-known South African sports journalist, anchor and analyst whose passionate, knowledgeable commentary made him a familiar face to football fans across the country.

A long-serving member of the SABC sports team, Kekana’s measured analysis and commitment to the growth of sport in South Africa earned him wide respect inside and outside the newsroom. His death in August 2019 prompted tributes from colleagues, government officials and the sports community.

Profile

• Full Name: David Kekana
• Born: ~1972 (estimated from age at death)
• Age at Death: ~47
• Death: 25 August 2019
• Nationality: South African
• Occupation: Sports journalist, analyst, anchor (SABC)
• Cause of Death / Illness: Chronic diabetes
• Spouse / Children: He had two daughters.
• Parents: Mother (Rose) and father mentioned.
• Siblings: He is survived by a sister.

Early life and background

Public records and coverage about David Kekana’s early life are limited in mainstream coverage. Multiple reports indicate he was in his mid-40s at the time of his death, placing his birth year around 1972. Rather than risk reporting unconfirmed details, most reputable outlets focus on his professional contributions and the circumstances of his passing.

Career at SABC and contributions

David Kekana served the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) for roughly 18 years, during which time he worked as an anchor and sports analyst, particularly focused on soccer. He became known for objective, critical analysis grounded in deep knowledge of the game — attributes that made him a trusted voice for viewers and listeners. His role included presenting, match analysis and participating in sports-policy discussions that sought to use sport as a vehicle for social cohesion.

Kekana’s style blended journalistic rigour with genuine enthusiasm: he was comfortable explaining tactical details for knowledgeable fans while remaining accessible to casual viewers. Colleagues described him as generous with mentorship and committed to raising the standard of sports broadcasting in South Africa. His presence on SABC shows helped set a tone of professionalism during many major domestic and continental football events.

Notable moments and influence

Though Kekana was primarily a broadcaster rather than a headline-making athlete or coach, his influence came through consistent, credible commentary and active participation in the sports community. He covered domestic leagues, provided analysis on national team performances, and was regularly cited by fans and peers for his fair-minded takes. Tributes after his death highlight the trust audiences placed in his voice and the mentorship he offered to younger journalists.

Personal life

Media reports indicate that David Kekana was a father and that his family confirmed his passing when he died in hospital in August 2019. Beyond these publicly reported facts, he generally kept his private life out of the limelight; most remembrances and news pieces focused on his professional life and the circumstances surrounding his passing.

Illness and death

David Kekana passed away on 25 August 2019 after a prolonged battle with chronic diabetes. He had been hospitalised earlier that month and succumbed to complications stemming from his condition. His death led to an outpouring of condolences from the public, fellow broadcasters and government officials, including public statements acknowledging his contribution to sport and broadcasting.

Legacy and how he is remembered

Kekana’s legacy is primarily one of steady, principled sports journalism. Colleagues remember him as a professional who elevated discussion about football in South Africa and who worked to use sport to bridge social divides. His long tenure at the SABC and the breadth of remembrances — from broadcasters to government statements — speak to the mark he left on the national sports media landscape. Memorial services and tributes in media and online preserved his memory among the local football fraternity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was David Kekana?

David Kekana was a veteran sports journalist, anchor and analyst with the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), known especially for his soccer analysis and long career in sports broadcasting.

When did David Kekana die?

He died on 25 August 2019 after complications related to chronic diabetes.

How long did he work at SABC?

Reports state that Kekana worked with the SABC for about 18 years, serving as a respected analyst and anchor.

What was he best known for?

Kekana was best known for his objective, insightful football analysis, his professionalism on-air, and his contributions to sports journalism in South Africa.

Did he receive any official tributes?

Yes — government departments, colleagues, and media outlets issued statements and tributes following his death, acknowledging his service to broadcasting and sport.

Where can I find recordings or tributes?

Remembrance clips, tributes and news stories are available through SABC coverage, archived news articles and video tributes posted online from 2019. Search major South African news outlets or SABC’s archives for coverage.

Conclusion

David Kekana’s career is a reminder that influence in sports can come from thoughtful, well-researched journalism as much as from on-field feats. Over nearly two decades at the SABC he helped shape public understanding of football, mentored younger broadcasters, and used his platform to promote sport’s positive social role. Though his life was cut short by illness, the respect he earned from colleagues, officials and fans ensures his contributions are remembered within South African sports media.