EDITOR
The passing of Ndugu Shaka Ssali is a profound loss to Africa and the world. Renowned for his commanding presence on Straight Talk Africa on The Voice of America, Shaka’s voice resonated deeply with many, shaping perspectives on African and global affairs.
For Morrison Rwakakamba, former chairperson of the Uganda Investment Authority, Shaka Ssali was more than a journalist—he was a mentor and an inspiration. Growing up in Kigezi, Rukungiri, Rwakakamba recalls being captivated by Shaka’s voice, which ignited his curiosity about global public affairs. That admiration became a personal connection when, years later, while living in the United States, Rwakakamba had the privilege of being hosted twice at the VOA News studios, engaging in thought-provoking discussions with the iconic broadcaster.
Beyond journalism, Shaka Ssali extended his generosity by personally showing Rwakakamba around Washington, D.C., hosting him for dinners, and introducing him to intellectuals from the celebrated J.F. Kennedy Great Africa Flight generation. Even in disagreements, Shaka remained gracious, embodying the spirit of intellectual discourse.
His impact stretched far beyond the airwaves, elevating the profile of Kabale, Kigezi, Butobere, Kikungiri, and Uganda on the global stage. Through his work and personal connections, he made an indelible contribution to Africa’s place in international discourse.
Veteran Ugandan journalist and broadcaster Shaka Ssali has passed away at the age of 71, just two weeks shy of his 72nd birthday. He died on Thursday, March 27, 2025, in the United States.
Born in Kabale District, Uganda, Ssali’s early education included attending Kikungiri Primary School and Kigezi High School. He later moved to the United States in 1976, where he pursued higher education, earning bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in cross-cultural communications from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA.
Ssali’s journalism career was marked by his role as the inaugural host and managing editor of Voice of America’s (VOA) “Straight Talk Africa,” a program he launched in August 2000. For over two decades, he engaged African leaders, analysts, and citizens in critical discussions on democracy, governance, and development. His signature opening line, “I’m profoundly honored and exceedingly humbled,” became a hallmark of the program.
Throughout his career, Ssali received numerous accolades, including a United Nations Peacekeeping Special Achievement Award in International Journalism and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Ugandan North American Association (UNAA) in September 2024, recognizing his significant contributions to media in Africa.
Following his retirement from VOA in May 2021 after 29 years of service, Ssali continued to inspire through public speaking and mentorship. His passing has elicited tributes from various Ugandan leaders and media personalities, highlighting his enduring impact on journalism and his role as a mentor to many in the field.
Shaka Ssali’s legacy as a champion of press freedom and his dedication to fostering open dialogue will be remembered across the African continent and beyond.
