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Two years ago, I was in search of a continental personality who could have encountered Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe in a personal way and who recognised his enormous contributions to the development and liberation of Africa from the stranglehold of colonial imperialism. I recalled Dr. Shaka Ssali.
I went in search, through a Ugandan friend. When she was unsuccessful to get his contact, I rummaged through the Ugandan news outlets for a possible lead. I found one but just as I was about to contact the person, a voice told me to seek also from Nigeria. After all, Shaka was a continental figure and could have some Nigerian colleagues.
A Facebook post of my lecturer at the International Institute of Journalism, Abuja, led me to Africa’s iconic voice and personality.
I first encountered Dr. Shaka Ssali many years ago and later through Facebook during his time as the host of Straight Talk Africa – a programme he hosted at Voice of America. I was a fan of his programme at the time. His introductory mantra at the beginning of each programme – “I am profoundly honoured and exceedingly humbled,” was indeed iconic and could be used only by the legendary Shaka Ssali even though he reportedly picked it up from President Kenneth Kaunda.
Shaka Ssali, the Kabale Kid, rose from grass to grace using his platform to project Africa’s perspective to the world. He interviewed as many as heads of state, titans of industries, world leaders and indeed all who cherish Africa and her promise. He challenged stereotypes and established himself as a world and continental figure – a model for many young people. Through his programme, he challenged African leaders for good governance and utilising Africa’s human and material resources for Africans and to contribute positively to the world.
His Pan Africanist approach to the world is exemplified through his refusal to change his accent and projecting his Kabale name and African identity. He owed no one any apology for being African.
When we talked in 2024 after he had reached out to my former lecturer who offered a positive word on my behalf, Shaka was nothing but warm. I fondly recall our debate to call him by his name instead of addressing him as sir. We finally reached an agreement, I addressed him as brother.
I had memorialised his iconic opening mantra, and wanted to use that to warm up our conversation. Out of excitement, I forgot the lines. I recall his chuckle across the phone. In his characteristic charm and journalistic questioning, he was skillful in his approach with his calm and respectful demeanor. He gave me a chance to explain myself as it took me a while into our more than one-hour conversation to understand I was being interviewed.
I suppose he wanted to ascertain how well I knew Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe and his contributions to Africa’s liberation and development. And if I am someone he would be investing his time with. Dr. Shaka Ssali respected the memory of the Pride of Africa; Zik. And added his voice to his story.
Shaka was not only patient with me, he was gracious. This I told him. No wonder his fans through the years idolise him. Many stories abound how he was admired through-out Africa.
This African treasure whom I was warming up to inform that the documentary on the life of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe – ZIK OF AFRICA, is now ready for the public only to be informed he is no more; leaving behind his indelible legacy in Africa’s socio political affairs and journalism.
At first, I wanted to disbelieve but even my Ugandan friend also confirmed that Ssali, the great Pan Africanist is no more. My fingers trembled, my heart squirmed but I do hope he would be brought home to Uganda to be with his ancestors.
I can only count myself fortunate and privileged to have spoken, not once, to this African treasure.
As you set forth your journey brother, may God grant you the smoothest journey.
