TRIBUTE TO MY LATE DAD. 10 YEARS IN MIND

Dads are someone to look up to, someone to follow, someone to admire, someone to be proud of and someone to brag about, someone to hold and someone to cry with, someone to learn from and someone to respect, someone to listen to and someone to talk to, someone to try and impress, sometimes rebel against, and, someone, most of all, with whom to share everything this wonderful life has to offer.

I am so incredibly grateful and happy that I can stand here today and tell you that I have had all this and much, much more with my dad Mwada Kaidal. I have been blessed to have had Mwada Kaidal as my dad.

To say I loved my dad would be an understatement - and to say I’m missing him would be an even greater understatement.

I had never imagine not having Dad on for one day at the end of a phone or popping around at a moment’s notice to assist, in his ever graceful manner, with any project great or small with which I happen to be needing advice. I always thought he would be around to see his daughter in law and his grand children. But 10 years has just passed away. Just like yesterday.

Dad was always there for everyone, family, neighbours, colleagues, or friends. . .

I have known him to ride his bike to school just to check up on us. On days he couldn't make it, his phone call always rea inches us. He always seemed to be able to draw upon boundless energy despite the thorn in his flesh. But that thorn couldn't stop him from giving us the best. The greatest man I've ever known.

He was a very clever man but was never afraid of having a laugh at his own expense. He is always full of surprises. His dance steps was just hilarious

Dad was also always there for Mum to the point that we don't know who is the husband or wife because they were so united in mind, decisions and finances.

For 25 years they have shared everything life can offer - together. They were a great team supporting each other in every way.

Dad was hard working, compassionate towards everyone, and deserved the success and rich life that he enjoyed. He taught me many, many things but I think most importantly he gave us the ability to know that if you really put your mind to something, anything is possible, and never to be afraid to give anything a go.

His attention to detail and perfectionism was infectious and once in a while could get him into trouble. I will never forget days he would personally walk to our room just to apologise for something he felt he did to us that wasn't right.

His passion for news made him always curious to learn how to repair his own kchibo Radio. Even after retirement he refused to rest. He became the CEO of KWAJAFFA VITAL FEEDS. That singular decision that opened my eyes to the business world.

Despite these odd foot in the mouth moments or unfortunate slip ups Dad was incredibly practical and creative and I am so lucky that he passed on so much of his knowledge and skills to me.

Nobody can be perfect but Dad was as close to being the most perfect Dad anyone could have.

Dad's love was unconditional and this is something I will cherish from his character – and take with me forever. His kindness and generosity will be remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

I would like to thank my wife and son Mwada( Dad's namesake) for their support. I won't forget to appreciate RUTH, SUNDAY, BINTA, MARY and HYELADI.

I am humbled by Mum’s strength over the past 10 years and her ability to focus on the amazing life she shared with my Dad and not dwell on what she has lost.

I hope that through this I can find strength from her example and be there for her whenever she needs me.

May dad's soul continue to rest in peace.