Family, Friends Gather To Honour Veteran Sports Journalist Paul Diblo Kaberia
Sports Updated: 04 June 2026 22:42 EAT
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Family members, friends, colleagues and members of Kenya’s sports fraternity gathered at All Saints Cathedral on Thursday, June 4, for the requiem mass service of veteran sports journalist and football commentator Paul “Diblo” Kaberia. The emotional service drew mourners from different parts of the country as they came together to celebrate the life, career and contribution of a man whose voice became a familiar sound to generations of football fans. Tributes and messages of remembrance reflected the impact he had both within the media industry and among audiences who followed his work for many years.
The requiem mass marked one of the final public moments of farewell before his burial and offered family and colleagues an opportunity to reflect on his journey in sports journalism. Speakers remembered him not only as an accomplished broadcaster but also as a mentor, colleague and friend whose passion for storytelling and football remained evident throughout his career. The atmosphere at the cathedral was one of remembrance and gratitude as mourners paid their respects.
Kaberia, widely known by listeners as Diblo and affectionately referred to by many as “El Mago,” built a respected name in sports broadcasting through decades of football commentary and sports coverage. His energetic delivery, memorable expressions and ability to capture the emotions of the game made him one of the most recognisable voices in Kenyan sports media and earned him a loyal following across the country.
His death on May 24, 2026, after a short illness shocked many in the media and sports community and sparked an outpouring of condolences from colleagues, fans and public figures. Messages shared in the days that followed highlighted his professionalism, dedication and lasting influence on sports journalism, with many describing him as a pioneer whose work shaped how football was experienced by radio audiences.
Throughout his career, Kaberia established himself as more than a commentator, becoming a respected figure who understood both the technical and emotional side of sport. Colleagues recalled his commitment to excellence and his ability to bring matches to life through vivid narration and insightful analysis that connected deeply with listeners.
Mourners who attended the service reflected on the personal qualities that defined him away from the microphone. Many described him as approachable, generous and supportive of younger journalists entering the profession. His willingness to guide upcoming talent and share experience was remembered as one of the enduring parts of his legacy.
Family members expressed appreciation for the support shown during the mourning period and acknowledged the overwhelming messages received from across the country. They noted that the turnout at the requiem service demonstrated the respect and affection that many people had developed for Kaberia over the years through his work and personal interactions.
Members of the sports fraternity also paid tribute to his role in elevating football broadcasting in Kenya. Many credited him with helping make sports commentary more engaging and accessible, turning ordinary match coverage into moments that listeners looked forward to and remembered long after the final whistle.
As stories and memories were shared during the service, a common theme emerged around Kaberia’s passion for football and his commitment to his craft. Those who worked closely with him remembered a professional who prepared thoroughly, valued teamwork and consistently gave his audience memorable experiences.
The requiem service formed part of a broader programme of farewell activities organised by the family ahead of his final send-off. Friends, colleagues and supporters used the gathering to honour not only his achievements but also the values and relationships he built throughout his life and career.
For many football fans, Kaberia’s commentary represented more than match updates. His style of delivery and emotional connection to the game created moments that became part of Kenya’s sporting culture and helped define radio sports broadcasting for years.
As the service concluded, mourners continued to gather outside the cathedral sharing memories and offering condolences to the family. The event served as a reminder of the wide reach of his work and the strong bonds he built across media and sports circles.
Attention now shifts to the final burial preparations as family and friends prepare to accompany him on his final journey. Arrangements indicate that the veteran journalist will be laid to rest on Saturday, June 6, at his home in Kangeta, Meru County.
The burial is expected to bring together relatives, friends, media professionals and football fans once again to celebrate and honour a man whose contribution to sports journalism left a lasting mark on Kenya’s broadcasting industry and whose voice became part of the country’s football history.
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FELIX MAKONA
FACT FINDER AND DATA DRIVEN JOURNALIST. DATA MINING AT IT'S BEST. GET FACTS RANGING FROM MATTERS DISABILITY AND INCLUSION, POLITICS, ECONOMY, SPORTS AND GENERAL NEWS AROUND THE WORLD