Veteran journalist and former Straight Talk Africa host Shaka Ssali has died at 71.
Known as the “Kabale Kid,” Ssali passed away on March 27 in the U.S., where he had lived for years. His death was confirmed by longtime friend Julius Mucunguzi, who called it “devastating.” The cause of death hasn’t been disclosed, but Ssali had been dealing with health issues since last year.
Voice of America (VOA), where Ssali spent decades shaping African journalism, called him a “revered broadcaster” and said he left behind a lasting legacy.
For over 20 years, he was the face of Straight Talk Africa, interviewing leaders, analysts, and citizens about governance, democracy, and development. His sharp questions and commitment to press freedom earned him deep respect across the continent.
“A native of Kabale, Uganda, Ssali was passionate about truth, accountability, and empowering Africa’s youth,” VOA said. “His impact on journalism will last for generations.”
He was recently honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Ugandan North American Association (UNAA) for amplifying African voices through media. During his acceptance speech, he dedicated the award to his hometown and thanked his family, friends, and even critics for shaping his career.
His signature phrases—”Get better, not bitter” and “Keep the African hope alive”—made him a beloved figure in African media.
In 2016, Ssali was flown in to moderate Uganda’s first-ever presidential debate. But the event became controversial when he was restricted to pre-approved questions with no room for follow-ups.
After retiring from Straight Talk Africa in 2021, he handed the show over to South African journalist Haydé Adams. The program, which he launched in 2000, remains one of VOA’s most influential, airing across Africa on TV and radio.
Ssali’s journey was one of resilience. Born in Kabale, he dropped out of school and joined the Uganda Army at 16. In 1974, after being linked to a failed coup against Idi Amin, he fled to Kenya and later to the U.S. Despite little formal education at the time, he worked his way up, eventually earning a PhD from UCLA in Cross-Cultural Communications and History.
A Ford Foundation Fellow and recipient of multiple awards, including a UN Peacekeeping Special Achievement Award in Journalism, Ssali used his platform to challenge leaders and mentor young African journalists.
For over two decades, he interviewed major figures like Uganda’s President Museveni, Rwanda’s Paul Kagame, Zimbabwe’s Robert Mugabe, and global icons like Nobel laureate Wangari Maathai and jazz legend Hugh Masekela.
Shaka Ssali’s passing marks the end of an era. His dedication to truth and storytelling shaped African journalism, and his influence will be felt for years to come.
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