Kenyan Sports Media Mourns the Voice of Football: Diblo Kaberia Dies After Illness

The Kenyan sports fraternity is in mourning following the death of veteran sports journalist and celebrated football commentator Diblo Kaberia, whose passing was confirmed on Sunday, May 24.

For many football fans across Kenya and East Africa, Kaberia was more than just a commentator. He was a familiar voice during tense football nights, a man whose energy behind the microphone brought matches to life and made listeners feel like they were inside the stadium.

News of his death was announced by his longtime friend and colleague Fred Arocho, who shared an emotional tribute describing Kaberia as not only a workmate but also a brother and trusted companion throughout their broadcasting journey.

His death comes after months of illness that had kept many in the sports industry concerned about his health. In recent weeks, fellow journalists, friends, and football fans had even begun fundraising efforts to support his medical treatment as his condition reportedly worsened.

The announcement of his passing immediately triggered an outpouring of grief online, with tributes flooding social media from journalists, football lovers, players, and sports leaders.

Among those who paid tribute was Hussein Mohammed, the president of Football Kenya Federation, who praised Kaberia for his dedication and passion for sports journalism. He noted that Kenyan football had lost one of its most recognizable voices.

For years, Diblo Kaberia became a household name through his work at Radio Jambo. His lively commentary style, sharp football analysis, humor, and chemistry with Fred Arocho made the duo one of the most loved football commentary teams in East Africa.

Whether covering the Kenyan Premier League, the Premier League, or the UEFA Champions League, Kaberia had a unique ability to connect with listeners. Even fans who could not watch matches often tuned in just to listen to the excitement and emotion he brought to every game.

But long before he became famous on radio, Kaberia had already built a deep relationship with football itself.

He reportedly played football during his younger years before later moving into coaching, where he spent nearly ten years coaching high school teams. He also served as a qualified football referee before eventually transitioning fully into sports media.

His journey into broadcasting officially took shape when he joined the Radio Africa Group in 2008. Over nearly two decades, he became one of the most recognizable sports voices in the country.

To many fans, Diblo Kaberia represented a golden era of football commentary on Kenyan radio — a time when passion, humor, storytelling, and football knowledge combined perfectly to entertain millions.

As tributes continue to pour in, many will remember him not just for the matches he called, but for the joy and excitement he brought into homes, matatus, shops, and football gatherings every weekend.

Kenyan sports media has lost a legend, but the voice of Diblo Kaberia will remain unforgettable to generations of football fans.