Robert Soi was a veteran journalist whose grasp of sports was unparalleled. He worked in one of the largest media houses in Kenya before exiting the scene without much fanfare.
On 26th May 2021, news of his death hit the interwebs after a long illness. His fans filled social media platforms with condolence messages. Apart from being a presenter, he also loved motorsport and was a golf enthusiast.
Age
Robert Soi passed away at the age of 45.
Family
Robert was married to Catherine Soi who works for Al Jazeera as a reporter. Together, they had two children.
Soi’s wife shared a tweet that spoke of their love and the void he has left:
My heart is broken into a million pieces. He was always our Roberto. Will forever be my Robs. My person has gone and I thank God he went knowing I've always had his back nomatter what
Rest with the angels baby, say hi to our dads.
I'll see you there
@R_SOI pic.twitter.com/Ae7DKYGfpe— Catherine Wambua- Soi (@C_SOI) May 27, 2021
Career
The late Soi was a great sports presenter whose skill was exceptional and he also mentored others in the field. He worked for Standard Media Group for KTN where he presented sports news and also travelled to the world to cover stories about sports.
He reported the 2010 FIFA World Cup for KTN and participated in the Safari rally in the 2011 KCB Safari rally. Apart from reporting, he interviewed a number of sportsmen and his interviewing skills made the interviewee feel at ease and brought out the best in his subjects.
Later, he left KTN and joined Chinese broadcaster CGTN where he worked as an editor and operations manager.
After leaving CGTN, he concentrated on personal projects and was also a communications consultant.
At one time, he was also the director at the Youth Agenda, a lobby group for youth inclusion.
Death
Veteran Sports Journalist Robert Soi has passed away in hospital. This is devastating! I have so much love and respect for this man! So humble and gracious! Rest in Peace Soi 🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/OGnPcEFw7V
— Carol Radull (@CarolRadull) May 26, 2021
The former sports editor was admitted on 20th May 2021 for surgery to clear a blood spot in his brain which he sustained after hitting his head. Unfortunately, he slipped into a coma and was declared dead on 26th May. John Bundotich (The Standard Editor-print) who also worked with the deceased said he was creative and helped revitalize sports reporting in KTN and Kenya.
Veteran Sports Journalist Robert Soi has passed away in hospital. This is devastating! I have so much love and respect for this man! So humble and gracious! Rest in Peace Soi 🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/OGnPcEFw7V
— Carol Radull (@CarolRadull) May 26, 2021
