VIRGINIA, United States
Africa has lost a towering figure in journalism following the passing of Shaka Ssali, the long-serving host of Straight Talk Africa on Voice of America (VOA).
He died on Thursday, 27 March
2025, just two weeks shy of his 72nd birthday.
Fondly known as the
"Kabale Kid," Ssali was a respected journalist whose insightful
interviews and fearless discussions on governance, democracy, and human rights
earned him recognition across the continent.
For over two decades, he was
the face of Straight Talk Africa, a platform that challenged leaders and
empowered citizens.
Born in Kabale, Uganda, Ssali
pursued academic excellence, earning a doctorate in cross-cultural
communication from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
His career at VOA spanned 29
years, 20 of them as the founder and host of Straight Talk Africa.
He retired in May 2021,
leaving behind a lasting legacy in African media.
It should be remembered that
Shaka Ssali’s recent appearance was through
a video on social media in which he cleared the air following a death
hoax rumour that made rounds in April 2024.
Throughout his career, Ssali
remained committed to press freedom and open discourse.
On his show, he often spoke
fondly about how he enlisted in the Uganda Army as a paratrooper, a decision
that eventually led him to flee the repressive regime of Idi Amin in
1976.
Seeking refuge in the United
States, Ssali returned to education, earning his bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD
in Cross-Cultural Communications at the University of California, Los Angeles
(UCLA).
His influence extended beyond
journalism, inspiring young Africans to engage in meaningful discussions about
leadership and accountability.
His words, "Let’s keep
the African hope alive," will continue to resonate with many.
Shaka Ssali’s impact on
African journalism is undeniable. He leaves behind a legacy of truth, courage,
and unwavering dedication to storytelling.
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