"I'm shocked beyond words and understanding. Just one day, he complained of a very hard headache, and he was gone," the wife said.
"Rashid was a loving husband, we have lived for more than 25 years, and he has been a devoted husband, always available for our children and me. It is a heavy burden for us," she added.
Idi joined Standard Group on January 17, 2013, and built a reputation as a dependable videographer with a calm presence in high-pressure assignments.
His career highlight came in 2016 when he won the CNN MultiChoice African Journalist of the Year Award alongside reporter Asha Mwilu for their investigative documentary
"Terror Crossing," which examined security lapses along the Kenya-Somalia border in Mandera County and investigated terror activities in the region.
The documentary was selected from 1,637 entries submitted from 38 African countries.
Health reporter Chebet Birir Saina praised Idi's ability to frame moments that brought stories to life.
"Whenever I had a feature assignment, and Rashid was assigned as the videographer, I knew we were about to create something special," Saina said. "Beyond his technical skills, what stood out was his work ethic, humility and care for colleagues."
Reporter Lucas Ngasike described Idi as a dedicated professional whose work told powerful stories with integrity.
KTN reporter Wanjiku Wanjiru shared a memory that captured Idi's character in action: "He was cool, selfless, friendly, a strong team player in the field, and a good-hearted man. The last story we covered together was the Makongeni estate demolition," Wanjiru said, adding, "I remember a woman whose house was almost brought down by a bulldozer; she tried to save her belongings alone. Rashid asked me to look after his camera mounted on a tripod, then immediately ran to help the lady rescue her fridge, lifting it to safety as the bulldozer drew closer."
"Our last conversation was only two weeks ago, when he congratulated me and sent heartfelt well wishes for my wedding. His sudden demise has come as a shock-we've lost a good man," she added.
Court reporter Kamau Muthoni remembered Idi as unassuming.
"He was quiet yet kind-hearted," Muthoni said.
Reporter Okumu Modachi said Idi often guided editorial decisions in the field. "On many occasions, he advised on what was important for news," Modachi said.
Standard Group Operations Manager Andrew Kagwa said Rashid was respected and always willing to help, both on assignments and in other roles.
"We have lost one of our hardworking videographers, people loved him because he was committed, many times he would even head the videographer's desk when the boss was away," said Kagwa, adding, "he was a very quiet man who gelled with others very well, a team player, and I must say it is a sad moment that we have lost him the time when the entire country is celebrating Christmas."
Senior KTN videographer Dan Imani, who studied with Rashid at the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication, described him as jovial and supportive, helping others grow in the industry.
"He was a dependable person since the time we were in college. During the time I knew him, he remained dedicated to his job and consistently delivered the best. It is a big blow for all of us," said Imani
Another colleague, Hudson Gumbihi, described Idi as a humble man who was willing to go the extra mile on his assignments.
"I worked with him for ten years, and I can say he was a very humble man."
"A good football player and a dedicated cameraman in the field of journalism. The last time I was with you was three weeks ago. Bro, news of your passing has hit me hard. Sad, sad, sad," ODM Communications Director Phillip Etale wrote.
Family members and media colleagues gathered at the Kibra Cemetery ablution area, where his body is being prepared for burial in Malaba.
He will be buried on Saturday, December 27, according to Islamic burial rites.