News

Gorfneh Yimer (first from left) with FM Addis 97.1 journalists Elizabeth Samuel, Abebe Feleke and Yiftusira Tuji (Photo: African Media Development Initiative)

ADDIS ABABA – Members of the press and media are trying to come to terms with the sudden death of veteran sports journalist, Gorfineh Yimer, as preparations get underway to lay him to rest at the St. Mary’s in Kuskuam on Sunday.

Gorfineh has adorned the Ethiopia media for nearly 30 years after he burst to the scene with his incisive battle reports during the Ethio-Somalian war for Radio Ethiopia.

His passion for football later took him to a distinguished career as sports journalist after his Eastern Ethiopia adventures.

“I have lost a close friend and great professional,” legendary journalist Demissie Damte told FM 97.1, the radio station where Gorfineh worked as an assistant coordinator in his last days. Demissie wept as he explained Gorfineh’s place in Ethiopian sports journalism.

Friends said he had a chronic stomach problem. The cause of his death, however, remains unconfirmed. FM 97.1 sports presenter Anteneh Zewde told Ethiopianfootball.com that when he met Gorfineh at a staff meeting two days before his death, he was cheerful and well.

“It was sudden and unexpected. I haven’t yet recovered from the shock,” Anteneh said.

Gorfineh was rushed to Tikur Anbessa hospital when he complained of feeling pain. He passed away today after a brief treatment.

As the coordinator of FM 97.1 from 2003- 2005, Gorfineh was credited for introducing the first triangular Sunday sports talk show in Ethiopia. The programme, Talkfootball, was later shut down under controversial circumstances.

Gorfineh is survived by two daughters.