The highland winds of Kigezi seemed to carry a somber whisper, a lament that echoed across the rolling hills and valleys. Shaka Ssali, the “Kabale Kid,” had returned to the earth, leaving behind a legacy as vast as the African continent he so passionately championed. In the heart of Uganda, a nation paused to remember a son who had risen to global prominence, yet never forgot his roots.
Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, his voice heavy with nostalgia, recalled a youth spent alongside Shaka in Kabale. “We were young men, toiling in the gardens, debating politics, dreaming of a better future,” he said, the memories painting a vivid picture of their shared beginnings. “Shaka, even then, possessed a spark, an inquisitive mind that yearned for knowledge.”
Former Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi echoed this sentiment, his words a testament to a lifelong friendship. “Shaka was a man of courage, vision, and resilience,” Mbabazi declared, his voice filled with respect. “He was a beacon for Africa, his voice a clarion call for truth and justice. The world has lost a giant.”
Julius Mucunguzi, the Electoral Commission spokesman, spoke of a personal debt, a door opened by Shaka’s generosity. “He gave me my first opportunity on ‘Straight Talk Africa,'” Mucunguzi recounted, a photograph from that day a cherished memento. “He inspired us to keep hope alive, to believe in the power of our voices.”
Thomas Tayebwa, Deputy Speaker of Parliament, emphasized Shaka’s enduring connection to his homeland. “Despite his years in America, Shaka remained rooted in his Kigezi and African culture,” Tayebwa affirmed. “He was one of our finest exports, a testament to the strength and wisdom of our people.”
Sheilla Nduhukire, spokesperson for National Medical Stores, spoke of Shaka’s inspirational impact on journalists. “He inspired us to dream big, and to 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.”
The U.S. Embassy in Uganda, recognizing the global reach of Shaka’s work, released a statement acknowledging his profound contributions to journalism. “His dedication to public dialogue across the continent was invaluable,” the statement read, a tribute to his bridge-building role.
Dr. Lawrence Muganga, Vice Chancellor of Victoria University, mourned the loss of a dear friend. “Africa has lost a towering figure,” Muganga lamented. “Shaka’s dedication and kindness touched countless lives. His legacy will endure.”
David Lewis Rubongoya, Secretary General of NUP, acknowledged Shaka’s advocacy for human rights. “He played an incredible role in advancing good governance,” Rubongoya stated, his voice filled with respect. “His impact will be felt for generations.”
Buganda Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga, in his tribute, recognized Shaka’s wisdom and dedication to truth. “His wisdom, voice and dedication to his profession and to the truth, will inspire generations.”
Joel Ssenyonyi, Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, shared a personal encounter. “As a young journalist, I admired his work,” Ssenyonyi recalled. “In 2016, I saw firsthand his passion for a better Uganda and Africa. He left an incredible footprint.”
Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, in her tribute, highlighted Shaka’s enduring devotion to his roots. “Despite spending many years abroad, he remained devoted to his Ugandan and African roots. He shared the African story and inspired the continent.”
Morrison Rwakakamba, former board chairman of Uganda Investment Authority, spoke of Shaka’s profound personal impact. “As a teenager in Kigezi, Rukungiri the voice of Shaka inspired me, and perhaps the many into Africa and global public affairs inquiry. He was gracious even in disagreements. Shaka showed me around Washington DC, hosted me for Dinners and introduced me to his friends who were mostly part of the J.F Kennedy’s Great Africa flight intellectuals. He made his contribution on global stage — and made Kabale, Kigezi, Butobere, Kikungiri — and Uganda famous!”
Shaka Ssali: A Profile
Shaka Ssali was a renowned Ugandan-American journalist, best known as the host of Voice of America’s (VOA) “Straight Talk Africa.” Born in Kabale, Uganda, he pursued higher education in the United States, earning a Ph.D. from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
His career at VOA spanned over two decades, during which he became a prominent voice on African affairs. “Straight Talk Africa” provided a platform for robust discussions on politics, economics, and social issues, featuring prominent African leaders, intellectuals, and activists.
Ssali was known for his incisive questioning, his deep knowledge of African history and politics, and his unwavering commitment to promoting dialogue and understanding. He was a passionate advocate for good governance, human rights, and development in Africa. His voice, marked by his distinct accent and thoughtful delivery, became a fixture for millions across the continent and beyond.
Beyond his professional achievements, Shaka Ssali was remembered for his warmth, his generosity, and his deep connection to his Ugandan roots. He was a mentor and inspiration to many young journalists, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and to tell the stories of Africa with integrity and passion. He was a proud son of Kabale, who showed to the world the brilliance that could come from the “Pearl of Africa.”