Celebrated football commentator Diblo Kaberia El Mago./FILE
Blessed with a distinctive delivery, razor-sharp humour and an unrelenting passion for football, Paul Kaberia, also popularly known as Diblo El Mago, carved out a special place in the hearts of fans across the country.
Diblo's vibrant storytelling and trademark “Taaaarifa!” battle cry and "Golazooooo!" His witty football tales from Guatemala and self-proclaimed title of 'Chairman wa Twa-twa' transformed football commentary into gripping theatre, electrifying listeners and cementing his status as a household name.
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) led the nation in paying tribute to the revered commentator, describing him as one of the defining voices of Kenyan football.
“Diblo’s voice became synonymous with Kenyan football, bringing matches to life for countless fans across the country through his passion, energy, and deep love for the game,” FKF said in a statement.
“His contribution to sports broadcasting played a significant role in growing the local game and connecting fans to football moments that will forever remain cherished memories.”
Tributes continue to trickle in in honour of the celebrated football commentator as the sports fraternity comes to terms with his sudden departure.
Celebrated football commentator Diblo Kaberia El Mago./FILE
According to his nephew Pius Mureithi, the famous Radio Jambo football commentator and presenter had been unwell since December 2025 and was under medication all along.
Born in 1975 in Igembe, Meru County, to Mr and Mrs Kaberia, Diblo was the fourth born in a family of seven siblings.
He went to Njia Primary School in Meru and lived his formative years there, and he later played for Kangeta FC and Keiga FC.
Diblo later went to Mombasa, where he played active football while sharpening his commentary skills, which proved pivotal in his profession.
He joined Radio Jambo in December 2008, just two months after the sports radio station hit the airwaves.
His former boss Carol Radull, who auditioned and orientated him, was pleased by his command of the Swahili language and commentary skills that earned him the job.
“Diblo was talented, focused and aggressive; he knew what he wanted and did the best to achieve it. The media has lost a gem that will take years to replace," Radull said.
He worked as a sports pundit and commentator alongside veteran sports presenters Mzee Toldo Kuria, Yusuf Kaona, Benard Otieno, Diamond Okusimba, Peter Kirumba and Bramwell Mwololo; they rocked the airwaves with their unique
Diblo later switched to Kwetu FM and had a stint at Milele FM before returning home to Radio Jambo, where he also worked with top commentator Fred Arocho and later Mathews Ottamax Owino.
“Diblo was a soldier who fought hard till the end and unfortunately left us due to illness," Arocho said.
The resourceful commentator was a member of the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) and covered big events, including the CHAN 2025 tournament and Kipkeino Classic, and the U20 Women's National team in Tanzania among other
The football lover played for SJAK FC as a midfielder and also did duty for Tusker Wazee, where he made a name for himself in the Sunday Wazee League. The die-hard Barcelona fan is succeeded by three children Elvis Muthomi, Estiniesta Thingani and Adress Kimathi El Mago.
SJAK said it was “deeply saddened” by the sudden passing of its member and colleague, who died while receiving treatment at Ruaraka Uhai Neema Hospital after a short illness.
The association praised Diblo for his passion for sports journalism and his ability to connect with audiences through radio.
“He was an exceptional storyteller who brought life to the airwaves and elevated sports journalism in Kenya,” the association said.
SJAK also highlighted Diblo’s role within the association beyond the newsroom, describing him as an important member of SJAK FC whose presence inspired colleagues on and off the pitch.
“He was a key member of SJAK FC, where his talent, camaraderie, and unwavering team spirit on and off the pitch brought immense joy to the association,” the statement read.
SJAK President James Waindi said the association had lost more than just a journalist.
“We have lost not just a brilliant journalist, but a brother and a teammate whose passion for the game was evident in everything he did,” Waindi said.
SJAK will play a friendly match against Office FC at Dandora Stadium on Saturday, May 30, at 9.30am, where a mini fundraiser will be conducted.
Radio Africa Group management, led by the Human Resources Manager Jemima Ngonde, sent their messages of condolences to the family, and the company has lost a dedicated employee who gave his best in the line of duty and will be missed dearly.
Radio Jambo presenter Joseph Ogidi, popularly known as Gidi Gidi, said Diblo’s legacy would forever echo through Kenya’s sporting landscape.
“His voice, passion and mastery of football commentary touched and entertained countless listeners across the country. “Lala salama Diblo. Your contribution to sports media will never be forgotten,” he wrote on his Facebook page.
Classic FM presenter Maina Kageni also paid tribute, remembering Diblo as a gifted broadcaster whose commitment and flair made him a standout figure behind the microphone. “What a loss. He was talented, passionate and committed... an exciting presenter and commentator."
“My sincere condolences to his friends and family... thank you for everything you did on the radio, Diblo... tutaonana baadaye.”
The funeral service will take place on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Njia Primary School grounds, and the burial at home thereafter.
According to the funeral Committee secretary Lidon Mutharimi, the fundraiser for the funeral will take place on Tuesday 2nd June 2026, at All Saints Cathedral starting 5pm, with all friends encouraged to attend
There will be a memorial mass on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at a venue that will be communicated later.
The total funeral budget is Kenya Sh4,370,000.
