The quiet hills of Kangeta in Igembe Central, Meru County, were engulfed in grief on Saturday, June 6, 2026, as family, friends, colleagues, and football fans gathered to bid a final farewell to veteran radio presenter and beloved football commentator Paul Kimani Kaberia, affectionately known as Diblo Kaberia or “El Mago.”

The emotional burial ceremony, held at Njia Primary School, was marked by tears, heartbreak, and moving tributes as mourners struggled to come to terms with the loss of the man whose voice had become synonymous with Kenyan football commentary.

For years, Diblo brought football matches to life through his electrifying narration, turning ordinary games into unforgettable experiences for listeners across the country. On this day, however, the microphone had fallen silent forever.

The ceremony attracted some of Kenya’s most prominent sports journalists and broadcasters, including Stephen Mukangai, Geoffrey Mwamburi, Kaka Zema, Hassan Mwana Wa Ali, and Fred Arocho, who joined hundreds of mourners in honouring a man whose passion and talent left an indelible mark on the media industry.

But amid the tributes and fond memories, one revelation left mourners devastated.

Fred Arocho’s Painful Disclosure

In one of the most emotional moments of the burial, sports commentator Fred Arocho broke down as he recounted Diblo’s final days.

Arocho revealed that the late broadcaster desperately needed KSh125,000 to undergo a life-saving medical procedure. Sadly, despite his urgent plea for help, the money could not be raised in time as his condition worsened.

The heartbreaking revelation cast a sombre mood over the gathering, with many left questioning how a man who had brought joy to millions could struggle alone in his hour of need.

What made the pain even deeper was the reality that after Diblo’s death, more than KSh1 million was contributed towards his funeral arrangements.

“The government should please follow up on its workers. It is painful that now that he is gone, we have managed to raise more than KSh1 million. Yet when he was alive and desperately needed only KSh125,000 for treatment, we could not find it. That hurts me deeply,” Arocho said, his voice heavy with emotion.

His words pierced the hearts of mourners, many of whom openly wept as they reflected on the tragic irony of a man receiving overwhelming support only after his death.

Farewell to a Football Commentary Magician

Known as “El Mago” Spanish for “The Magician” Diblo earned admiration for his unmatched ability to paint vivid pictures through words. His energetic style, infectious enthusiasm, and deep love for football made him one of Kenya’s most cherished sports commentators.

Speaker after speaker remembered him as a dedicated professional, a gifted storyteller, and a humble man whose voice united football fans from all walks of life.

As his casket was lowered into the ground, emotions overflowed. Tears streamed down faces as loved ones watched the final chapter of his journey come to an end.

Diblo Kaberia Fought A Battle Until the End

Diblo passed away on the morning of May 24, 2026, while receiving treatment at a Nairobi hospital. He had been battling illness for several months, enduring pain and uncertainty while hoping for a chance to recover.

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Those close to him say he remained hopeful despite his worsening condition. However, the surgery that could have given him another chance at life never happened because the required funds could not be secured in time.

He died at the age of 54.

As the sun set over Kangeta and mourners slowly dispersed, one painful question lingered in the air: Could more have been done to save the man whose voice brought so happiness to others?

For many, Diblo Kaberia’s story is not only one of remarkable talent and legacy but also a heartbreaking reminder of the importance of standing with people when they need help most – not when it is already too late.