Veteran Ugandan journalist and broadcaster Shaka Ssali will be cremated on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, in Alexandria, Virginia, in accordance with his final wishes.
The revered media personality, known for his impactful journalism and advocacy for democracy in Africa, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy that spanned decades.
Popularly known as the “Kabale Kid,” Ssali chose cremation over traditional burial, opting not to have his body repatriated to his homeland. Instead, his ashes will be transported to Uganda and scattered in his birthplace of Kabale, as well as in other African countries he passionately covered during his career.
A public viewing and celebration of his life will be held at Jefferson Funeral Chapel, where family, friends, and admirers will gather to pay tribute to a man whose voice became synonymous with African affairs on the global stage. The event will take place from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, allowing mourners to reflect on his immense contributions to journalism and public discourse.
Shaka Ssali’s decision to be cremated, while uncommon in Ugandan tradition, reflects a growing trend among some Ugandans in the diaspora. While burial remains the predominant practice, factors such as high funeral costs, limited burial space, and evolving personal and spiritual perspectives have contributed to a gradual acceptance of cremation.
In Uganda, cremation is legally recognized and available at select facilities, including the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) crematorium at Bukasa Cemetery. Although still a rare choice, the practice has gained consideration among urban families navigating modern burial challenges.
Ssali’s passing has elicited tributes from journalists, politicians, and media personalities across Africa and beyond. Many have hailed him as a champion of press freedom and democracy, whose work on platforms like Voice of America (VOA) gave African voices a place in global conversations.
His cremation marks the final chapter of a life dedicated to telling Africa’s story—one that will continue to inspire generations of journalists and change-makers across the continent.
