Taaaarifa!”: Remembering Diblo El Mago, Kenya’s Beloved Football Voice

Kenya Mourns Iconic Football Commentator Paul “Diblo El Mago” Kaberia

Blessed with a distinctive delivery, razor-sharp humour, and an unrelenting passion for football, Paul Kaberia, popularly known as Diblo El Mago, carved a special place in the hearts of fans across Kenya. With his vibrant storytelling and trademark battle cries, “Taaaarifa!” and “Golazooooo!”,

Diblo transformed football commentary into gripping theatre, captivating audiences nationwide.

His self-proclaimed title of “Chairman wa Twa-twa” and witty tales of football adventures—even from as far as Guatemala—turned ordinary matches into electrifying experiences for fans, earning him the status of a household name.
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) led tributes to the legendary commentator, describing him as “one of the defining voices of Kenyan football.” FKF stated,

“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. 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 pour in as the sports community comes to terms with his sudden departure.

Life and Career of a Football Legend
Born in 1975 in Igembe, Meru County, Paul Kaberia was the fourth of seven siblings. He attended Njia Primary School, where he spent his formative years before nurturing his love for football, playing for Kangeta FC and Keiga FC. Later, Diblo moved to Mombasa, where he continued playing actively while sharpening the commentary skills that would define his career.

He joined Radio Jambo in December 2008, just two months after the station launched. His former boss, Carol Radull, praised his command of the Swahili language and natural flair for commentary, saying,
“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.”

Diblo worked alongside veteran sports presenters such as Mzee Toldo Kuria, Yusuf Kaona, Benard Otieno, Diamond Okusimba, Peter Kirumba, and Bramwell Mwololo, making the airwaves pulse with energy and unique storytelling. Over the years, he also had stints at Kwetu FM and Milele FM before returning to Radio Jambo, where he collaborated with commentators Fred Arocho and later Mathews Ottamax Owino.

A Life Dedicated to Football
Beyond commentary, Diblo played for SJAK FC as a midfielder and participated in the Tusker Wazee Sunday League, further showcasing his dedication to the sport. He was a die-hard Barcelona fan and an active member of the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK), covering major events like CHAN 2025, the Kipkeino Classic, and the U20 Women’s National Team in Tanzania.

SJAK lauded him as an exceptional storyteller, highlighting his ability to connect with audiences and elevate sports journalism in Kenya. SJAK President James Waindi reflected,
“We have lost not just a brilliant journalist, but a brother and teammate whose passion for the game was evident in everything he did.”

Sudden Passing and Legacy
Diblo passed away on Sunday, May 25, 2026, while receiving treatment for chest complications at Ruaraka Uhai Neema Hospital. His nephew, Pius Mureithi, revealed that he had been unwell since December 2025 and had been under continuous medication.
Diblo is survived by his three children: Elvis Muthomi, Estiniesta Thingani, and Adress Kimathi El Mago. Tributes have poured in from across the media, including Joseph Ogidi (Gidi Gidi) and Maina Kageni, who remembered him as a gifted broadcaster whose passion and flair for the game left a lasting impact.

Funeral Arrangements
The funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Njia Primary School grounds, with the burial at his family home thereafter. A fundraiser for the funeral is scheduled for Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at All Saints Cathedral starting at 5 pm. A memorial mass will take place on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at a venue to be announced. The total funeral budget is KSh 4,370,000.

Diblo’s voice, passion, and mastery of football commentary will forever echo in Kenya’s sporting landscape, ensuring that his legacy as one of the nation’s greatest football commentators lives on.