Shaka Ssali, the revered host of Straight Talk Africa on Voice of America (VOA), has passed away at the age of 71.
Renowned for his sharp analysis and dedication to telling Africa’s stories, Ssali earned the respect of leaders, analysts, and everyday citizens across the continent and beyond. His show became a platform for critical discourse, bridging the gap between Africa and the global stage.
Born in Kabale, Uganda, Ssali’s path to journalism was anything but conventional. He attended Kikungiri Primary School and Kigezi High School before his education took an unexpected detour—dropping out of secondary school in the 1960s.
His life took a dramatic turn when he enlisted as a paratrooper in the Uganda Army, an experience he often reflected on in his broadcasts. However, political turmoil under Idi Amin’s repressive regime forced him into exile in 1976.
Seeking refuge in the United States, Ssali reignited his passion for learning, earning a bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD in Cross-Cultural Communications from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
Ssali’s journalism career began modestly at VOA, co-hosting Africa World Tonight before rising to prominence in 2000 as the host of Straight Talk Africa. The show became his signature platform, where he engaged African leaders and intellectuals in honest and thought-provoking discussions.
His trademark introduction, “I’m profoundly honored and exceedingly humbled,” became a staple of his program, reflecting both his humility and deep sense of purpose.
In September 2023, Ssali received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the Ugandan North American Association (UNAA), recognizing his immense contributions to African journalism.
During his acceptance speech, he paid tribute to his roots in Kabale and the many individuals—friends, family, and even critics—who shaped his journey.
His well-known phrase, “Let’s keep the African hope alive,” resonated beyond the airwaves, becoming a call to action for his millions of listeners.
Even as his health declined last year, prompting false reports of his passing on social media, Ssali remained a symbol of resilience and dedication. Beyond his broadcasting legacy, he mentored young journalists across Africa, particularly in Uganda, leaving behind an indelible mark on the industry.
