Renowned Ugandan journalist Shaka Ssali, best known for hosting Straight Talk Africa on Voice of America (VOA), has passed away at the age of 71.
A Respected Voice in African Journalism
Ssali, often called the “Kabale Kid,” died on March 27 in the United States, where he had lived for years. His death was confirmed by longtime friend Julius Mucunguzi, who described the news as “devastating.” The exact cause hasn’t been disclosed, but Ssali had been dealing with health issues since last year.
VOA paid tribute to him, calling him a respected broadcaster who left a lasting impact on African journalism. He was just two weeks away from turning 72.
His Legacy on Straight Talk Africa
For over 20 years, Ssali was the face of Straight Talk Africa, a show that brought African leaders, experts, and everyday people together to discuss democracy, governance, and development. His fearless interviews and commitment to press freedom earned him widespread admiration.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Shaka Ssali, the longtime host of VOA’s Straight Talk Africa. Ssali, a revered journalist and broadcaster, passed away at the age of 71, two weeks shy of his 72nd birthday, leaving behind an indelible legacy in African journalism. For more than two decades, Ssali was the face and voice of Straight Talk Africa, where he engaged African leaders, analysts, and citizens in critical discussions on democracy, governance, and development. His insightful interviews and unwavering commitment to press freedom earned him widespread respect across the continent and beyond,” VOA said in its statement.
His famous sign-off line, “Keep the African hope alive,” became a signature of his work.
Honored for His Work
In 2023, Ssali received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Ugandan North American Association (UNAA) for his contributions to journalism. During his acceptance speech, he dedicated the award to his hometown, Kabale, and acknowledged the people who shaped his journey.
His impact went beyond journalism—his words and wisdom resonated with people across the continent. He often reminded his audience to “Get better, not bitter.”
A Journey of Resilience
Ssali’s rise wasn’t easy. Born in Kabale, he dropped out of secondary school and later joined the Uganda Army at just 16. In 1974, he was linked to a failed coup attempt against Idi Amin, forcing him to flee to Kenya and later to the United States in 1976.
Despite having little formal education when he arrived in the US, he worked his way up, eventually earning a PhD in Cross-Cultural Communications and History from UCLA. Over the years, he received several honors, including a United Nations Peacekeeping Special Achievement Award in Journalism.
The End of an Era
Ssali retired from Straight Talk Africa in 2021, passing the torch to South African journalist Haydé Adams. But the show he started in 2000 remains one of VOA’s most influential programs, aired across 18 African countries.
Throughout his career, Ssali interviewed high-profile leaders like Uganda’s Yoweri Museveni, Rwanda’s Paul Kagame, Zimbabwe’s Robert Mugabe, and global icons like Nobel laureate Wangari Maathai and jazz legend Hugh Masekela.
With his passing, African journalism has lost a giant. But his legacy—his commitment to truth, his fearless storytelling, and his belief in Africa’s future—will live on.
