Shaka Ssali, the legendary Ugandan journalist and former host of Straight Talk Africa on Voice of America (VOA), has died at the age of 71.
Ssali passed away in Virginia, USA, on Thursday, March 27th, 2025, just two weeks shy of his 72nd birthday.
A Life of Influence and Integrity
Born in Kabale District, Uganda, Ssali’s journey from a village boy to an influential international broadcaster inspired generations.
He hosted Straight Talk Africa for over two decades, creating a platform where African leaders, analysts, and ordinary citizens could engage in candid discussions on democracy, governance, and development.
VOA confirmed his passing in a statement:
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Shaka Ssali, the longtime host of VOA’s Straight Talk Africa. Ssali, a revered journalist and broadcaster, passed away at the age of 71, leaving behind an indelible legacy in African journalism.”
From Soldier to Journalist
Shaka Ssali’s early life was marked by hardship and resilience. After dropping out of school, he became a child soldier before taking a bold leap to the United States, where he exceeded his own expectations.
He earned a doctorate in cross-cultural communication from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and later became a Ford Foundation fellow.
Inspired by his father’s old radio and a childhood admiration for Western cowboys, Ssali initially dreamed of becoming a cowboy. However, his time in the military, where he witnessed abuses of power, shaped his desire to become a journalist.
“I wanted to use journalism not only as a tool to inform people but also as a weapon for addressing social, economic, and political justice,” Ssali once said.
Career and Legacy
After joining Voice of America in 1992, Ssali became the founder and host of Straight Talk Africa, where his deep, authoritative voice became synonymous with fearless, balanced journalism.
He interviewed some of Africa’s most influential leaders, including presidents and prime ministers, while giving a platform to ordinary citizens and opposition figures.
His work earned him widespread recognition, including the United Nations Peacekeeping Special Achievement Award in International Journalism, VOA’s Best Journalist Award, and the Uganda Diaspora Award.
In 2021, he retired from VOA after 29 years of service.
“Shaka’s commitment to truth, accountability, and empowering Africa’s youth through journalism will remain his greatest legacy,” said VOA in a tribute.
Tributes and Reflections
The news of Ssali’s death has sent shockwaves across Africa and the global media landscape.
Ronald Muhinda, a longtime admirer, described him as:
“A straight-talking journalist who fairly, and without bias, gave Africa’s opposition and liberation movements a voice on the world stage.”
Shaka Ssali’s legacy as a voice for Africa, a champion for press freedom, and an advocate for truth will endure for generations to come.
