VOA and Ugandan celebrated journalist, Ssali, passes on. Here are 13 things to remember about him

Former host of Voice of America’s (VOA) popular programme “𝑺𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝑻𝒂𝒍𝒌 𝑨𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒂” Shala Ssali has reportedly died, sending the African journalism community to mourning. Ssali’s passing had sent shockwaves across the continent, with tributes pouring in from colleagues, friends and admirers.

Things to know about Ssali.

1. Born in the small town of Kabale, Uganda, Ssali’s journey to becoming a legendary journalist was nothing short of remarkable.

2. He was only two weeks shy of his 72nd birthday according a statement by the American broadcaster.

3. For over two decades, Ssali was a big figure in African journalism, renowned for engaging in meaningful conversations about democracy, governance, and development.

4. His work garnered respect and admiration at home, across Africa and beyond, with countless leaders, analysts, and citizens looking to him as a trusted voice in broadcasting.

5. In his time as a broadcaster, Ssali became synonymous with incisive commentary on Africa’s political and social landscape, his voice becoming a bridge for Africans to connect with the world.

6. The “Kabale Kid” Who Made His Mark Born in the small town of Kabale, Uganda, Ssali’s journey to becoming a legendary journalist was nothing short of remarkable.

7. 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.

8. 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).

9. His work as a journalist started with a humble beginning at VOA, where he first co-hosted Africa World Tonight.

10. His breakthrough came in 2000, when he was given the reins of Straight Talk Africa, a platform that allowed him to engage African leaders in critical dialogues on pressing issues.

11. For over two decades, Shaka Ssali was a household name in Africa, known for his fearless and incisive journalism.

12. As the host of “Straight Talk Africa,” he tackled some of the most pressing issues on the continent, from politics and corruption to social justice and human rights.

13.Ssali’s unique style, which blended wit, humor, and intellectual curiosity, made him a beloved figure among audiences.

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