Cyril Oleh
Legendary presenter on VOA, Dr. Shaka Ssali, takes a bow.
For decades, he hosted VOA’s interactive TV show, Straight Talk Africa, where he discussed trending issues around the continent.
Shaka Ssali was at home with African history and events.
Originally from Uganda, he escaped the despotism of Yoweri Museveni and found sanctuary in the US, where he joined the VOA and became the face of Africa.
In 2003, Shaka visited Abuja, Nigeria during the presidential elections where Dim Ikemba Ojukwu was a candidate.
Shaka and I had the honour to interview Chief Ojukwu one-on-one at his private hotel residence at that time.
Earlier in 2001, when I visited VOA headquarters in Washington, DC, Shaka invited me to Studio 7, where I watched him interview President Kenneth Kaunda of Zambia.
A few days ago, Shaka passed peacefully in his sleep. Sleep on, brother. Adieu Shaka. King Ndugu.
