David Kekana Biography: South Africa’s Beloved Soccer Analyst

David Kekana Biography – Discover the inspiring life of David Kekana, South Africa’s beloved SABC soccer analyst who left an indelible mark on sports journalism before his passing in 2019 at age 47.

David Kekana Biography: South Africa’s Beloved Soccer Analyst

David Kekana was more than just a sports analyst—he was a beloved voice that brought South African families together every weekend for nearly two decades. Born on November 2, 1971, and passing away on August 25, 2019, at the age of 47, David Kekana left an indelible mark on South African sports journalism and broadcasting. His warm smile, insightful analysis, and genuine passion for soccer made him a household name across South Africa and endeared him to millions who tuned in to SABC Sport programs week after week.

For 18 years, Kekana was an integral part of the SABC Sport team, where he served as a football analyst, scriptwriter, researcher, and on-field touchline presenter. His career took him from local league coverage to the world’s biggest sporting stages—FIFA World Cups, Olympic Games, Africa Cup of Nations, and All Africa Games. He possessed what colleagues described as “great knowledge of the sport,” and his passion for soccer transformed him into “one of the greatest South African soccer pundits” of his generation.

What distinguished David from many sports commentators was his accessibility and humanity. He wasn’t a distant expert talking down to audiences; he was someone who felt like a friend, a neighbor, someone you’d want to watch a match with. His analysis was sharp yet delivered with warmth, his criticisms constructive rather than harsh, and his celebrations of great play genuinely joyful. Colleagues remember him as hardworking, humble, funny, and generous—qualities that transcended professional excellence and made him genuinely loved.

When news of his death broke on August 26, 2019, South Africa mourned collectively. Tributes poured in from government ministers, fellow journalists, former players, and ordinary South Africans whose weekends had been enriched by his presence on their television screens. The South African Government tweeted: “We send our condolences to the family and friends of Mzansi’s veteran sports analyst and soccer fanatic David Kekana. His contribution to the sporting fraternity will be missed.”

David Kekana’s life was cut tragically short by chronic diabetes, but his legacy endures in the memories of those who knew him, the standards he set for sports journalism in South Africa, and the inspiration he provided to aspiring broadcasters who saw in him proof that passion, knowledge, and dedication could create a meaningful career in sports media.

Early Life & Education: From Teacher to Journalist

David Kekana was born on November 2, 1971, though specific details about his birthplace and early childhood remain somewhat private, as was typical for someone who rose to prominence through professional achievement rather than seeking personal publicity. What is known is that he received a solid education that prepared him for both teaching and journalism—two careers that would define his professional trajectory.

Before becoming a household name in sports broadcasting, David Kekana worked as a mathematics and English teacher at JS Mpanza Primary School in Diepkloof, Soweto. This role is significant for several reasons. First, it demonstrates his commitment to education and community development during a crucial period in South Africa’s transition from apartheid to democracy. Teaching in Soweto in the 1990s meant working with children from disadvantaged backgrounds, many of whom faced significant socioeconomic challenges.

His choice to teach mathematics and English—two foundational subjects critical for future academic and professional success—shows a dedication to providing young South Africans with tools for advancement. Those who remember him from this period describe someone who was patient, clear in his explanations, and genuinely invested in his students’ success. These teaching skills—breaking down complex information into understandable components, maintaining audience attention, and communicating with clarity—would later prove invaluable in his broadcasting career.

The transition from education to journalism was not uncommon in South Africa during the post-apartheid era, as the country’s media landscape expanded and diversified. Many educated professionals, particularly those with strong communication skills and subject matter expertise, found opportunities in the growing media sector. For David, his passion for soccer—South Africa’s most popular sport and a unifying cultural force—provided the bridge from classroom to newsroom.

David’s education, while its specific details are not extensively documented, clearly included strong foundations in communication, analysis, and critical thinking. His later work demonstrates someone who could research thoroughly, write compellingly, analyze strategically, and communicate effectively—skills typically developed through quality education and deliberate practice.

His teaching background gave him an additional advantage in broadcasting: the ability to educate viewers. Good sports analysis is essentially teaching—explaining tactics, providing context, helping audiences understand what they’re watching at deeper levels. David’s years in the classroom prepared him exceptionally well for this educational aspect of sports commentary.

Career Journey: 18 Years of Excellence in Sports Broadcasting

Early Journalism Career (1999-2000)

David Kekana’s journalism career began in 1999 when he joined The Sunday Times newspaper as a reporter. The Sunday Times is one of South Africa’s most prestigious and widely-read newspapers, and securing a position there represented a significant professional achievement. Working at a major newspaper provided David with essential journalism skills—researching, fact-checking, meeting deadlines, writing concisely, and developing sources.

During this early period, he also worked as a sports commentator for Primedia and M-Net (later SuperSport), gaining broadcast experience across multiple platforms. This multi-platform experience—print journalism combined with radio and television commentary—gave David a comprehensive understanding of sports media and the different skills required for each medium.

SABC Sport: Finding a Home (2000-2019)

In 2000, David Kekana joined SABC Sport, beginning an 18-year association that would define his career and legacy. The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) is the country’s public broadcaster, reaching millions of South Africans across television and radio. SABC Sport was (and remains) the primary source of sports coverage for many South Africans, particularly for local and African sporting events not always covered by commercial broadcasters.

David started as a football analyst and scriptwriter on Soccerzone, one of SABC’s flagship soccer programs. His role involved not just appearing on camera but also researching teams, players, and tactics, and crafting scripts that would guide the program’s narrative. This behind-the-scenes work demonstrated his comprehensive understanding of soccer and his ability to translate that knowledge into accessible broadcast content.

He later joined the Soccer 411 and Sport@10 teams as a journalist, expanding his responsibilities and visibility. On SABC1’s Laduma, he formed part of the analysis team and occasionally served as a touchline presenter on the field—a role requiring quick thinking, comfort with live broadcasting, and the ability to conduct meaningful interviews in pressured environments.

Major Tournament Coverage

One of David Kekana’s most significant contributions was his work as a researcher and scriptwriter for major international sporting events. He was part of SABC’s coverage teams for:

• FIFA World Cup tournaments—the world’s most-watched sporting event
• Olympic Games—showcasing sports beyond soccer
• Africa Cup of Nations—Africa’s premier football competition
• All Africa Games—a multi-sport event celebrating African athletic excellence

These assignments required extensive preparation, deep knowledge not just of South African teams but of international squads, and the ability to provide context that helped South African audiences understand and appreciate the global sporting landscape. David’s work on these productions was consistently praised by colleagues and superiors for its thoroughness and insight.

His colleague David O’Sullivan, another SABC sports broadcaster, tweeted after David’s death: “I’m shocked and saddened to hear of the death of former colleague David Kekana. I worked with David for years on SABC Sport, where he was a wonderful analyst. He would joke we were twins – both named David, both born on 2 November and both married to white women.”

Beyond Broadcasting: Sports Administration

David Kekana’s contributions extended beyond the broadcast booth. He served as Managing Director of Baroka Football Club, one of the South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) clubs, demonstrating his understanding of the administrative and business sides of soccer beyond just commentary.

More significantly, Gauteng Premier David Makhura appointed him as a member of the province’s social cohesion initiatives. This appointment reflected recognition that David’s work transcended entertainment—his analysis and presence actually contributed to social cohesion in South Africa. As the government statement noted: “He was known for his objective and critical analysis in sports performance, especially soccer. He made a meaningful contribution to policy formulation in order to build sport as a channel for social cohesion in Gauteng.”

The statement elaborated: “There is a strong link between sporting events and positive social effects, including reinforcing identities, uniting people from every walk of life and promoting social cohesion. Sport is the social fabric that binds us together. The manner in which Kekana analysed sport unknowingly united people through dialogue and interaction.”

This recognition that David’s work had social and political dimensions—that sports commentary could actually help heal divisions and build national unity in post-apartheid South Africa—represents perhaps the highest compliment his work could receive.

Working Style and Reputation

Colleagues consistently described David as a hard worker, a passionate team player, and someone who possessed extraordinary knowledge of soccer combined with an ability to communicate that knowledge accessibly. SABC Sport Executive Producer Joe Phetla praised his dedication, and numerous fellow broadcasters spoke of learning from him.

Xoli Zondo, an SABC presenter and producer, said she would “never forget how much she learnt from him.” Former Orlando Pirates striker Phumudzo Manenzhe recalled “how Kekana helped him to adapt to television, analysing football.” These testimonials reveal someone who was not just skilled but generous with his knowledge, actively mentoring and supporting colleagues and contributors.

His trademark was his smile—described repeatedly in tributes as “ever smiling,” “jolly,” and “a smile that lit up the room.” In an industry that can sometimes reward aggression or controversy, David’s approach was characterized by positivity, humor, and genuine love for the game. This didn’t mean he avoided criticism when warranted, but his critiques were constructive and respectful rather than mean-spirited.

Major Achievements: Recognition and Impact

While David Kekana was not someone who sought awards or personal accolades—his focus was always on the work itself—his achievements and the recognition he received were substantial.

Professional Longevity and Consistency:

Eighteen years at SABC Sport represents remarkable consistency in an industry where turnover is often high. This longevity reflected not just David’s talent but his professionalism, reliability, and the trust his employers placed in him. To be trusted with coverage of World Cups, Olympics, and other major events speaks to the confidence the organization had in his abilities.

Coverage of Major Global Events:

Participating in the broadcast teams for FIFA World Cups and Olympic Games put David among an elite group of South African sports journalists trusted to represent the nation on the global stage. These assignments came with tremendous pressure—millions of viewers, live broadcasts, the need for accurate information delivered under deadline pressure—and David consistently met these challenges.

Government Recognition:

His appointment to Gauteng Province’s social cohesion initiatives represented official government recognition that his work had value beyond entertainment. This acknowledgment that sports commentary could serve social policy objectives—helping to unite a diverse, sometimes divided society—elevated David’s work from mere professional achievement to public service.

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Nathi Mthethwa’s tribute highlighted this broader impact: “Today we woke up to devastating news of the passing of veteran football Analyst, David Kekana. His contribution to football analysis spans close to 2 decades & his commitment to sports development will be sorely missed.”

Mentorship and Influence:

While not a formal award, David’s impact on younger broadcasters and analysts represents a significant achievement. Multiple colleagues spoke of how he helped them develop their skills, provided guidance, and created space for others to succeed. This generosity ensured his influence would extend beyond his own work to shape South African sports journalism for years to come.

Public Love and Respect:

Perhaps the most meaningful achievement was the genuine affection ordinary South Africans felt for David. When he died, social media was flooded with tributes not from colleagues alone but from fans who felt they had lost a friend. Comedian Mpho Popps Modikoane wrote: “To think I saw you just the other day, in a way I got to see you one last time and say bye without even realizing it, you were your good old self, jolly and ever smiling. Your untimely passing has struck a chord with so many of us, you are gone way too soon madala.”

This connection with ordinary viewers—people feeling genuine personal loss at his death—represents an achievement money cannot buy and awards cannot capture.

Setting Professional Standards:

David Kekana helped establish standards for what quality sports analysis should look like in South Africa—knowledgeable yet accessible, critical yet fair, passionate yet professional. Future generations of sports analysts would be measured against benchmarks he helped establish.

Personal Life: The Man Behind the Microphone

David Kekana was described by all who knew him as someone whose personal qualities matched his professional excellence. He was a father of two daughters, and those who knew him spoke of his dedication to his family. Balancing the demands of sports broadcasting—which often requires weekend work, travel to matches and tournaments, and irregular hours—with family responsibilities demonstrated his commitment to both professional and personal obligations.

He was born on November 2, 1971, which created a funny coincidence with his colleague David O’Sullivan, who shared the same birth date. O’Sullivan tweeted: “He would joke we were twins – both named David, both born on 2 November and both married to white women.” This shared birthday became a source of ongoing humor between the two, illustrating David Kekana’s playful side and his ability to find joy in small coincidences.

Colleagues universally described him as humble despite his success and recognition. In an industry where egos can run large, David remained grounded. Umhlobo Wenene FM sports presenter Mluleki Ntsabo “reflected on Kekana as a humble man.” This humility made him approachable and beloved by colleagues at all levels of the organization.

His sense of humor was legendary. Multiple tributes mentioned his jokes, his laughter, and his ability to lighten tense situations. Thabiso TT Tema, a Power FM sports presenter, wrote: “A smile that lit up the room! Passionate, loving, generous to a fault…larger than life character. You lived your life to the fullest.” This description captures someone who embraced life fully, who found joy in his work and relationships, and who shared that joy generously with others.

Gloria Brown, former Banyana Banyana player and SABC Sports commentator, paid tribute to what she called “the gentleman of the game.” This characterization—emphasizing David’s gentlemanly conduct—speaks to his professionalism, his respectful treatment of others, and his embodiment of values that transcended mere technical competence.

David’s generosity extended beyond emotional support. Colleagues described him as “generous to a fault,” someone who would help others without expectation of return. In a competitive industry where knowledge can be hoarded as professional advantage, David freely shared what he knew, actively helping others succeed even when it might have been seen as creating competition for opportunities.

His marriage to a white woman (mentioned by David O’Sullivan) in post-apartheid South Africa, while perhaps unremarkable to younger generations, represented a choice that earlier generations might not have been able to make freely. It reflected someone who built relationships based on personal connection rather than social convention or historical constraints.

Battle with Diabetes:

David Kekana fought a long battle with chronic diabetes, a disease that ultimately claimed his life. Diabetes management requires constant attention—monitoring blood sugar levels, maintaining dietary discipline, regular medical appointments, and lifestyle adjustments. That David maintained his demanding career while managing this serious chronic condition speaks to his determination and resilience.

On August 13, 2019, David was admitted to Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg after his condition deteriorated. He spent two weeks hospitalized, during which his family and colleagues held out hope for his recovery. His family’s spokesperson, Andile Ncube, said: “We wish to thank the medical team that attended to him for their medical interventions and unwavering support during David’s stay in hospital.”

Despite the medical team’s efforts, David Kekana passed away on Sunday, August 25, 2019, at the age of 47. He was survived by his mother, sister, father, and two daughters—a family now left with memories of a man who touched countless lives through both his professional work and personal relationships.

Net Worth & Lifestyle: A Life of Purpose Over Wealth

While specific details about David Kekana’s net worth were never publicly disclosed, his financial situation can be understood within the context of South African broadcasting salaries and his lifestyle choices.

As a long-serving SABC employee who worked as an analyst, scriptwriter, and researcher for 18 years, David would have earned a stable, middle-class income. SABC salaries, while secure, are not at the same level as commercial broadcasters like SuperSport or private media companies. However, the stability and prestige of working for South Africa’s national broadcaster provided intangible benefits beyond salary.

His additional work as Managing Director of Baroka Football Club would have provided supplementary income, as would occasional commentary work for other media houses like Primedia and M-Net that he did earlier in his career.

However, David Kekana was clearly not someone motivated primarily by wealth accumulation. His choice to begin his career as a teacher in Soweto—a noble but certainly not lucrative profession—established early that his priorities centered on meaningful work rather than maximum earnings. His transition to journalism and broadcasting represented following his passion rather than pursuing the highest-paying opportunities.

His lifestyle, based on all available accounts, was comfortable but not extravagant. He focused on family, work, and his genuine love for soccer. There are no stories of lavish spending, luxury purchases, or ostentatious displays of wealth. This modest approach to material possessions reflects values common among South Africans of his generation who prioritized community, family, and purpose over accumulation.

The fact that colleagues and friends emphasized his generosity rather than his possessions tells us much about his priorities. He invested in relationships, in mentoring others, in doing quality work—investments that don’t appear on financial statements but create lasting value.

His death at 47 reminds us that wealth and success must be measured in more than financial terms. David Kekana died having touched countless lives, having brought joy to millions, having helped build South African sports journalism, and having been genuinely loved by those who knew him. By these measures, he was extraordinarily wealthy indeed.

Legacy & Impact: A Lasting Influence on South African Sports Media

David Kekana’s death on August 25, 2019, left a void in South African sports broadcasting that remains palpable years later. His legacy, however, extends far beyond the 18 years he spent at SABC Sport.

Raising Standards for Sports Analysis:

David helped establish what quality sports analysis should look like in South Africa. Before him and his generation, sports commentary was often superficial, focusing on play-by-play description with limited tactical insight. David brought depth—explaining formations, analyzing tactical decisions, providing historical context, and helping viewers understand the game at deeper levels.

His work demonstrated that sports commentary could be both entertaining and educational, accessible yet sophisticated. This standard influenced a generation of analysts who followed, raising expectations for what South African audiences should expect from sports coverage.

Social Cohesion Through Sport:

The government’s recognition that David’s work contributed to social cohesion in South Africa speaks to impact that transcends entertainment. In a country still healing from apartheid’s divisions, sports—and particularly soccer—served as one of the few areas where South Africans of all backgrounds could unite. David’s analysis fostered dialogue and interaction, helping people from different communities engage with each other around shared passion for the game.

As the government statement noted: “Sport is the social fabric that binds us together. The manner in which Kekana analysed sport unknowingly united people through dialogue and interaction.” This recognition elevates David’s work from successful career to genuine public service.

Mentorship and Professional Generosity:

Perhaps David’s most enduring legacy is the analysts, commentators, and broadcasters he mentored and supported. Multiple colleagues spoke of how he helped them develop their skills and confidence. This investment in others ensures that his influence will continue shaping South African sports media for decades, as those he helped go on to mentor the next generation.

Former Orlando Pirates striker Phumudzo Manenzhe’s comment that David “helped him to adapt to television, analysing football” illustrates how David’s support extended beyond fellow broadcasters to former players transitioning into media careers—a generosity that strengthened the entire industry.

Representation and Accessibility:

David Kekana’s success as a Black South African analyst during the post-apartheid era contributed to transforming South African media. While details of his early life challenges aren’t extensively documented, his rise from teaching in Soweto to becoming one of South Africa’s most respected sports voices provided inspiration for young Black South Africans aspiring to careers in media.

His accessible style—the warmth, the humor, the lack of pretension—made sports analysis feel democratic rather than elitist. He proved that you didn’t need to be a former professional player or have an elite education to provide valuable sports commentary. Knowledge, passion, communication skills, and hard work could create opportunities.

The Outpouring of Love:

The tributes that poured in after David’s death—from government ministers, fellow journalists, former players, and ordinary South Africans—revealed the breadth of his impact. Minister of Transport Fikile Mbalula tweeted: “Farewell my brother, it seems like each day we receive sad news on how we’ve become poorer as a country as some of our most gifted depart. Yours too is sudden and shock to all of us. Until we meet again.”

DJ Sbu wrote: “Sad news indeed. South Africa mourns the loss of our brother. Condolences to close friends and family.” The widespread grief demonstrated that David’s influence extended far beyond professional circles into the hearts of ordinary South Africans whose weekends he had enriched for nearly two decades.

Lessons for Aspiring Broadcasters:

David Kekana’s career offers several lessons for those aspiring to sports media careers:

• Deep knowledge matters: David’s comprehensive understanding of soccer elevated his analysis above superficial commentary
• Communication skills are learnable: His teaching background developed skills transferable to broadcasting
• Humility and generosity create lasting impact: His support for others built relationships that transcended professional networking
• Passion is visible: Audiences could see and feel David’s genuine love for soccer, making his enthusiasm infectious
• Professionalism and reliability build careers: His 18 years at SABC reflected consistent excellence

The Continuing Void:

Years after his death, colleagues still speak of missing David’s presence, his insights, and his friendship. The space he occupied—as analyst, colleague, mentor, and friend—has never been quite filled. This continuing absence testifies to the irreplaceable nature of his contributions and the genuine connections he built.

Conclusion: Remembering a South African Sports Icon

David Kekana’s life, though cut tragically short at 47, was one of purpose, passion, and profound impact. From his early days as a teacher in Soweto through his rise to become one of South Africa’s most beloved sports analysts, he embodied values that South Africans cherish—hard work, humility, generosity, and genuine love for what he did.

His 18 years at SABC Sport represented more than just a successful career; they represented service to South African society. Through his insightful analysis, warm presence, and genuine passion for soccer, David helped bring South Africans together during a crucial period in the nation’s development. His work contributed to social cohesion in ways both tangible and immeasurable, demonstrating that sports commentary can be more than entertainment—it can be a force for unity and understanding.

The manner of his death—after a long battle with diabetes—reminds us of life’s fragility and the importance of cherishing those who enrich our lives. The outpouring of tributes from government ministers, fellow journalists, former players, and ordinary South Africans revealed the breadth and depth of David’s impact. He touched lives at every level of South African society.

What made David Kekana special wasn’t just his knowledge of soccer, though that was extensive. It wasn’t just his communication skills, though those were considerable. It was the totality of who he was—knowledgeable yet humble, successful yet generous, professional yet warm, serious about his work yet never taking himself too seriously. He brought joy to his work and shared that joy with everyone around him.

His legacy lives on in multiple ways: in the standards he helped establish for South African sports analysis, in the colleagues and players he mentored who continue his tradition of excellence, in the social cohesion his work fostered, and in the memories of millions who felt like they knew him personally despite experiencing him only through their television screens.

David’s famous smile, his insightful commentary, his generous spirit, and his genuine love for the game—these are what South Africans remember when they think of him. In a country still working to heal historical divisions and build a unified national identity, David Kekana represented the best of what South Africans can be—talented, dedicated, humble, generous, and absolutely committed to excellence in service of their community.

His story reminds us that impact isn’t measured only in awards, wealth, or fame. It’s measured in lives touched, standards raised, colleagues supported, and communities served. By these measures, David Kekana’s life was extraordinarily successful, and his legacy continues inspiring new generations of South African sports journalists who hope to follow in his footsteps.

As Thabiso TT Tema wrote: “A smile that lit up the room! Passionate, loving, generous to a fault…larger than life character. You lived your life to the fullest.” David Kekana did indeed live life fully, and in doing so, he made countless other lives fuller as well.

Rest in peace, David Kekana. Your voice may be silent, but your influence echoes on.

Frequently Asked Questions About David Kekana

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