The Kigezi sub-region is in deep mourning following the death of renowned journalist Shaka Ssali, the former host of Voice of America’s flagship program Straight Talk Africa. Ssali, who was 71 years old, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in journalism and a deep connection to his roots in Kabale.

Born to John Mushakamba and Amina Kanyomya, Ssali hailed from Mwajari Ward in Southern Division, Kabale Municipality. His death has sent shockwaves through the community, with many residents, leaders, and fellow journalists expressing their grief and paying tribute to his remarkable life and career.

Sam Arinaitwe, the chairman of Central Division in Kabale Municipality, described Ssali’s passing as a great loss to Kigezi and Kabale. He fondly recalled how Ssali proudly referred to himself as “the Kabale Kid,” a name that reflected his deep love and pride for his hometown. “Kigezi and Kabale have lost a great man,” Arinaitwe said. “Shaka Ssali was widely known as an exceptional journalist, but for us in Kabale, we will always remember him for his deep pride in his roots. He always identified himself as ‘the Kabale Kid’ and put our town on the map.”

Andrew Agaba, the manager of Voice of Kigezi, highlighted Ssali’s long and impactful career in journalism, which spanned nearly two decades. He emphasized that Ssali was not just a journalist but also a mentor and inspiration to many young reporters in Kabale and across Uganda. His dedication to the profession set a high standard for others to follow.

Veteran journalist Justus Tidyebwa, who played a key role in inspiring Ssali to pursue journalism, remembered him as a highly ethical and well-researched professional. “Shaka Ssali was highly professional and ethical,” Tidyebwa said. “Every time you listened to him host Straight Talk Africa, you could tell he was knowledgeable about the topics he discussed. He was thorough and always prepared.”

Robert Kakuru, another admirer of Ssali’s work, praised his independence, integrity, and self-driven nature. Kakuru noted that Ssali’s approach to hosting educational and informative shows was a reflection of his commitment to democratic values and good governance, particularly in Uganda. His ability to engage leaders, analysts, and ordinary citizens in meaningful discussions made Straight Talk Africa a respected platform for dialogue on critical issues affecting the continent.

For more than two decades, Ssali was the face and voice of Straight Talk Africa, where he facilitated conversations on democracy, governance, and development. His interviews with African leaders and thinkers were known for their depth and fairness, earning him respect across the continent. His work went beyond just reporting; it was about fostering understanding and promoting positive change.

Beyond his professional achievements, Ssali remained deeply connected to his community. His love for Kabale was evident in how he often spoke about his hometown with pride. He was not just a global journalist but also a local hero who never forgot where he came from. His passing has left a void not only in the media industry but also in the hearts of those who knew him as a friend, mentor, and proud son of Kigezi.

As the news of his death spreads, tributes continue to pour in from colleagues, listeners, and leaders who admired his work. Many remember him as a man of principle, a journalist who upheld the highest standards of the profession, and a person who carried his identity with dignity. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched and the young journalists he inspired.

The people of Kigezi and Kabale will forever cherish the memory of Shaka Ssali, the “Kabale Kid” who made his mark on the world while never losing sight of his roots. His contributions to journalism and his unwavering love for his homeland will remain an enduring part of his story. As the community mourns, they also celebrate the life of a man who used his voice to inform, educate, and unite people across Africa and beyond.

In this time of grief, the words of those who knew him best serve as a reminder of his impact. From his professionalism to his humility, from his global reach to his local pride, Shaka Ssali was a remarkable figure whose absence will be deeply felt. But his work, his values, and his love for Kabale will continue to inspire future generations. The Kigezi sub-region has indeed lost one of its finest, but his legacy will never be forgotten.