Ugandan-American journalist Shaka Ssali dies at 71. Founder of VOA’s Straight Talk Africa, he leaves a legacy of truth and pan-African unity.
Shaka Ssali Dies at 71: VOA’s Straight Talk Pioneer Remembered
WASHINGTON, D.C. – March 27, 2025 – Renowned Ugandan-American journalist Shaka Ssali has died at the age of 71. Best known as the founding host of Straight Talk Africa on Voice of America (VOA), he passed away peacefully in Alexandria, Virginia, just two weeks shy of his 72nd birthday.
A cremation ceremony was held on April 9, in accordance with his wishes. His ashes will be scattered in Kabale, Uganda, and across the African continent—symbolizing his lifelong devotion to pan-African identity and unity.
“Let’s keep the African hope alive.” – Shaka Ssali
A Journey from Paratrooper to PhD
Born in Kabale, Uganda in April 1953, Ssali left school at 16 and joined the Uganda Army as a paratrooper. Fleeing Idi Amin’s regime, he sought asylum in Canada, then moved to the United States in 1976.
There, he rebuilt his life through education—earning a bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD in cross-cultural communication and history from UCLA.
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Straight Talk Africa: A Platform for the People
Joining Voice of America in 1986, Ssali launched Straight Talk Africa in 2000. For over 20 years, the show became one of the most respected platforms for governance, human rights, and citizen engagement in Africa.
He interviewed presidents, opposition figures, and civil society activists, always maintaining fairness and clarity.
“A giant in African journalism whose voice bridged continents,” said VOA Director Yolanda López.
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Cremation Sparks Family Debate
Although legal and increasingly common, cremation remains culturally controversial in Uganda. Ssali’s ashes are to be scattered in Kabale and other locations per his wish—but some relatives opposed this move.
“This should have been a family conversation,” a relative told Daily Monitor.
His immediate family defended the decision as a symbolic act of continental unity.
🕯️ Why cremation stirs debate in Uganda
🪦 Changing burial practices in African diaspora
A Lasting Legacy in African Journalism
Ssali retired from VOA in 2021, but his legacy lives on. His platform gave voice to everyday Africans and redefined how leaders engage with their constituents.
In September 2024, the Ugandan North American Association (UNAA) honored him with a Lifetime Achievement Award, which he dedicated to his Kabale hometown.
“He taught us that truth needs no passport.” – Former Straight Talk Africa producer
The Voice That Lives On
Though cremated abroad, Ssali’s legacy remains rooted in African ideals, journalistic integrity, and diaspora consciousness. His life story remains a testament to resilience and service.
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📝 Tributes to Shaka Ssali
