The nation of Uganda and the global community are in mourning the death of veteran journalist and broadcaster Shaka Ssali, who was formerly the esteemed host of Straight Talk Africa on Voice of America (VOA).
He passed away on the evening of March 27, 2025, in the United States after undergoing recent surgery.
Ssali gained recognition as the anchor and managing editor of Straight Talk Africa, a television and radio talk show he founded in August 2000.
This weekly program addressed a wide range of topics, including politics, economic development, conflict resolution, and social justice.
After more than twenty years of dedicated service, Ssali retired from VOA in May 2021.
In 2016, he was chosen as one of three moderators for the Ugandan presidential debate in Kampala, highlighting his significant influence and credibility across the continent.
Tributes
Following the unexpected passing of the veteran journalist, numerous individuals expressed their condolences on X, previously known as Twitter.
In her message, Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among stated: “I extend my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Dr. Shaka Ssali. Despite spending many years abroad, he remained devoted to his Ugandan and African roots. He shared the African story and inspired the continent. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues in the press. May his remarkable spirit rest in peace and continue to inspire hope across Africa.”
The Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa noted: “I’m saddened to learn of the death of former Voice of America Straight Talk Africa host, Shaka Ssali. Despite having stayed in America for many years, Mr. Shaka Ssali remained rooted in his Kigezi and African culture. He is one of the finest human exports this country has ever had. My condolences to his family, the Banyakigezi community, the country, and Africans at large.”
The Vice Chancellor, Victoria University Prof. Lawrence Muganga: “It is with a heavy heart that I bid farewell to my dear friend, Ndugu Shaka Ssali.
Africa has lost a towering figure in journalism. His firm dedication to the craft, together with his kindness and generosity of spirit, touched countless lives.
Shaka’s legacy will live on through the powerful stories he shared, the lives he enriched, the people he inspired, and the love he spread. I am truly grateful to have had the privilege of knowing him.
To the family and friends, I offer my deepest condolences during this extremely difficult time.
Hon. @flaviakalule, I can only imagine the depth of your grief, and I stand with you in this sorrowful moment. May all who had the honor of knowing Shaka find comfort in the cherished memories and the lasting impact he made on the world. Rest in peace, Ndugu Shaka Ssali. ️.”
In his post the lead presenter BBC News Allan Kasujja wrote: “I’d always hoped to meet Shaka Ssali. I never did. If I had, I’d have thanked him for inspiring me to look beyond Uganda. Beyond Africa. He was truly a trailblazer! May he rest in peace.”
Former Ugandan Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda said the late supported the training of African journalists and was instrumental in connecting Africa with the rest of the world, stressing that his passing is a challenge to the youth to work hard and excel in their respective fields.
“We have learnt with deep sorrow of the passing of our brother and comrade Shaka Ssali. Shaka was a childhood friend among other youth in Kabale. As young men, we would work in the gardens, attend meetings, read newspapers and discuss political issues. He was passionate about African and global issues and made an enormous contribution in the media world, especially in presenting African causes on Voice of America,” he noted
David Lewis Rubongoya @DavidLRubongoya wrote: “Fare thee well, great man, Shaka Ssali. You have played an incredible role in advancing human rights and good governance on the African continent and beyond. Rest well, sir.”
Peter Charle Mayiga the Buganda Kingdom Prime Minister noted: “We mourn the death of Shaka Ssali, an accomplished journalist and proud son of Kigezi, and of Uganda. His wisdom, voice and dedication to his profession and to the truth will inspire generations. I extend my condolences, and those of the Kingdom of Buganda, to his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, Shaka.”
Sheila Nduhukire , the Principal Public Relations Officer National Medical Stores wrote: “I’m profoundly honored and exceedingly humbled to have had the privilege of meeting the legendary Shaka Ssali. He inspired many journalists to dream big and believe that we could expand our horizons beyond Uganda. And as he always said, remember to keep better and not bitter, and to keep the African hopes alive. RIP Kabale Kid.”
