Veteran sports journalist Diblo eulogised for exceptional storytelling following demise

Renowned Kenyan sports journalist Paul Kimani Kaberia, popularly referred to as ‘Diblo’ has been celebrated as an invaluable pillar of the industry, following his demise on Sunday, 24 May.

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Kaberia, who captured the hearts and minds of many sports fans across the country with his unique voice on radio, passed away early Sunday morning, while receiving treatment from a short illness.

An avid lover of sports, Kaberia was known all over for his media duties with Radio Africa Group, the institution he worked at for more than two decades, serving as a football commentator for its popular station Radio Jambo.

In a statement, Radio Africa Group HR Jemima Ngode described Kaberia as a dedicated employee, whose voice and passion for football endeared him to listeners across the country.

“Kaberia was widely known for his energetic football commentary and deep understanding of the game, making him one of the most recognisable sports voices on local radio,” Ngode said.

Aligned to his work on radio, Kaberia was also an ever-present feature in Kenyan sports, actively taking time to attend games, and building strong relationships with whoever he came across.

In addition, Kaberia was a key member of the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK), which he served with dedication, and was part of its football team - SJAK FC - where his talent, camaraderie and unwavering team spirit came to the fore.

“We have lost not just a brilliant journalist, but a brother and teammate, whose passion for the game was evident in everything he did,” SJAK President James Waindi said in a statement, describing Kaberia as an exceptional storyteller, who brought life to the airwaves, and elevated sports journalism in Kenya.

“His presence in our sports media fraternity was a source of constant warmth and inspiration,” Waindi added. “Diblo’s passing leaves a massive void in the sports journalism fraternity, and within SJAK FC. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and the Radio Africa Group during this incredibly difficult time.”

©Diblo Kaberia/X

Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed also eulogized Kaberia, a man he recognized as a respected sports journalist, who was very passionate to his craft.

“It is with deep sorrow that I learn of the passing of Diblo Kaberia,” Hussein said. “His contributions to sports journalism will be remembered and missed.”

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Veteran sports journalist Carol Radull, who at some point shared the same work station with Kaberia shared a memory saying: “I met Diblo Kaberia in late 2008, early 2009, when I was a Programme Controller at Radio Jambo. It took a two minute audition to see that he would be one of the greatest football commentators in Kenya and beyond. RIP Diblo. You will be missed.”

Popular radio host Maina Kageni also sent his commiserations, referring to Kaberia as a talented, passionate, and exciting presenter and commentator.

“A moment of silence as we mourn the passing of a colleague,” Maina, also an employee of Radio Africa Group, said.

Kaberia’s exceptional work spanned people from different walks of life, and here at Mozzart Sport, we join the entire sporting fraternity in passing our condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.