Keep Dr. Shaka Ssali's African Hopes Alive

Honoring a Legend: My Reflection on Dr. Shaka Ssali

I am Paul Ndiho. Let me start by borrowing the words of Dr. Shaka Ssali, aka the Kabale Kid—I am profoundly honored and exceedingly humbled to reflect on my mentor, colleague, brother, and dear friend, Ndugu Shaka.

My journey with Shaka spans over two decades. I first heard of him through my father, an avid Voice of America (VOA) listener. As a young aspiring journalist in Uganda, I admired his work. The Gulf War of 1990-1991 sparked my passion for reporting, but meeting Shaka solidified it.

I first saw him in person nearly 26 years ago as a freshman at University, where he gave a lecture. The room overflowed with students eager to hear him speak. That day was a highlight of my college years—I had seen and met Shaka Ssali, a man whose voice had shaped African journalism.

Shaka was more than a broadcaster; he was a beacon of truth and a champion for press freedom. His impact on African journalism is immeasurable, and his legacy will live on.

As Ndugu Shaka always said, "Let's keep the African hope alive."