Shaka Ssali, a Ugandan-born journalist celebrated for his decades of bold reporting and hosting Voice of America’s “Straight Talk Africa,” has died suddenly, leaving colleagues, listeners, and the African diaspora in shock. The cause of his death remains undisclosed, his family and employer said Wednesday.
Ssali, whose career spanned over 20 years at VOA, was known for grilling presidents and global figures, from Nigeria’s Olusegun Obasanjo to former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. Tributes flooded social media, with fans and peers praising his fearless journalism and dedication to African issues. Yet details surrounding his passing were not immediately released, fueling online speculation.
His family and colleagues have requested privacy, urging the public to avoid conjecture. A formal statement is expected later, officials said.
Born in Uganda, Ssali’s path to journalism was unconventional. He left school at 16 to join the army, later fleeing to Kenya after a failed coup attempt before settling in the U.S. There, he earned multiple degrees, including a doctorate from UCLA, and rose to prominence as a voice for accountability and cross-cultural dialogue.
“Straight Talk Africa,” his weekly VOA show, became a platform for challenging leaders and spotlighting continental struggles. His work earned accolades like the United Nations Peacekeeping Special Achievement Award and VOA’s Best Journalist Award.
Ssali’s death has reignited reflections on his legacy. “He wasn’t just a journalist; he was a bridge between continents,” said a longtime colleague, who asked not to be named ahead of the family’s statement.
