Just days before his sudden passing, legendary Radio Jambo sports commentator Diblo Kaberia, affectionately known as 'El Mago', shared a poignant message on social media.
The veteran broadcaster, who was 54 years old, reached out to his followers on Facebook with a rare glimpse into his personal struggles.
On 21 May at 1:54 PM, he posted a brief but urgent plea for support. "I NEED YOUR PRAYERS MHAKIKI has been SICK," he wrote, referring to himself by his popular title, Mhakiki wa Soka (The Football Analyst).
A Vivid Call for Strength
The post was accompanied by a striking image of a single, green eye painted in watercolours, with a tear rolling down the cheek. Overlaying the artwork was a message of resilience that now carries a heavier weight for his grieving fans.
"Nothing is permanent. Don't stress yourself too much because no matter how bad the situation... is it will change."
The image served as a final piece of encouragement from a man who spent his life bringing energy and joy to others. At the time of his death, the specific cause remained unknown, making this final request for prayers even more significant to those who followed his career.
The Voice of a Generation
Diblo was far more than a radio presenter; he was a pioneer who helped build the Radio Jambo brand from the ground up. He was famous for his high-octane "Goal Rush" segments, where his signature shout of "Taaaaaarifa!" would stop listeners in their tracks.
Whether he was updating scores from Anfield or the Emirates, he had a unique ability to keep his audience riveted to their radios. Many fans remarked that his commentary was so descriptive that they felt as though they were watching a live game.
From Standard Six to the Studio
Diblo’s journey into the hearts of Kenyans began early. He started his commentating journey while he was still a pupil in Standard Six. His lifelong dream was always to be either a professional footballer or a sports commentator, and he successfully achieved the latter with great distinction.
The Legend of ‘El Mago’
To his colleagues and listeners, he was also the man of a thousand stories. He frequently joked about his time playing football in Guatemala, where he claimed fans would camp outside his house shouting "El Mago! El Mago!" (The Magician).
He often quipped that he was so talented that he was awarded the "Man of the Match" trophy the night before the game even started.
While his humour brought smiles to millions, his final post reminded the world of his human side—a man facing illness with faith and the hope that everything will change.
He leaves behind a legacy of passion, expertise, and a voice that defined the golden era of Kenyan sports radio
