Tributes are pouring in for SABC Sport football analyst David Kekana, who has passed away on Sunday night. Kekana’s family confirmed in a statement on Monday that the veteran journalist passed away on Sunday after a lengthy battle with diabetes.
He has worked at the SABC for 18 years. He was 47.
SABC Sport football Executive Producer Joe Phetla had this to say.
He also worked at various media houses before joining SABC Sport, including Primedia and the Sunday Times.
Sunday Times Sports Editor Bareng-Batho Kortjaas who also worked with David Kekana on Soccerzone, Soccer 411 and Laduma paid tribute to his brother and friend.
Former Orlando Pirates striker Phumudzo Manenzhe recalls how Kekana helped him to adapt to television, analysing football.
Veteran sports broadcaster Eben Jansen reminisces about how Kekana welcomed him in Johannesburg as a young journalist.
Cudjoe Amankwa, who worked with Kekana on Soccer 411 and Laduma, still can’t believe his friend is gone.
Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa said that his contribution to football analysis for close to two decades would be sorely missed.
Umhlobo Wenene FM breakfast show sport presenter Mluleki Ntsabo reflected on Kekana as a humble man.
Metro FM Sport Presenter Lebo Motsoeli reminiscences about time he spent with Deza.
Former Banyana Banyana player and SABC Sports commentator Gloria Brown, who also worked with Deza as an analyst, has paid tribute to the gentleman of the game.
Kekana formed an integral part of the SABC Sport team as a Researcher and Script Writer for various productions, including the FIFA World Cup tournaments, the Olympics, All Africa Games and the Africa Cup of Nations.
Kekana was a hard worker and a passionate team player. He will be sorely missed by his colleagues at SABC Sport, the SABC at larger and the sporting fraternity. – Report by Mntomuhle Gumede
The details of the memorial and funeral service are as follows:
- Date: Wednesday, 28 August 2019
- Time: 9:00 for 9:30
- Venue: Rhema Bible Church, Randburg
