The African journalism community is mourning the loss of Shaka Ssali, the former host of Voice of America’s (VOA) “Straight Talk Africa”, a program that shaped political discourse across the continent.
Ssali, known for his fearless journalism and insightful interviews, spent over two decades addressing Africa’s pressing issues, including politics, corruption, social justice, and human rights. His engaging style, blending wit and intellectual depth, made him a household name.
Born in Uganda, Ssali began his journalism career in the 1970s before joining VOA in 1994. He launched “Straight Talk Africa” in 2000 and remained its host until retiring in 2023. His work earned him numerous awards, cementing his legacy as one of Africa’s most influential journalists.
Tributes continue to pour in from colleagues, admirers, and leaders across the continent, celebrating his impact on African journalism. His contributions will forever inspire future generations of broadcasters.












