Uganda mourns veteran sports journalist Allan Ssekamatte

Kampala, Uganda — Uganda’s media and sports fraternity is mourning the death of veteran journalist and analyst Allan Ssekamatte, who passed away on April 1, 2026, at Kiruddu National Referral Hospital following heart-related complications.

Ssekamatte, widely regarded as one of the country’s most knowledgeable and articulate sports commentators, died in his late 40s, leaving behind a legacy that shaped sports journalism in Uganda for over two decades.

His death was first confirmed by his longtime colleague and friend Mark Ssali, who shared an emotional tribute.

“Dear friends, our beloved Allan Ssekamatte has passed on at Kiruddu Hospital. So long my brother, may God take charge,” Ssali posted.

The news was also confirmed by Daily Monitor, where Ssekamatte rose through the ranks to become one of the most influential voices in sports journalism.

A Career that Defined Sports Media

Ssekamatte’s career spanned print, radio, and television, where he became a household name for his deep analysis and storytelling ability.

At Daily Monitor, he served as sports editor, shaping coverage and mentoring young journalists. On radio, he co-hosted the iconic Scoreline show on Monitor FM alongside Ssali, a program that became a staple for sports fans since 2001.

He also gained widespread recognition on television as part of the Sport On trio, alongside Ssali and Joseph Kabuleta, where his insights and engaging style elevated sports talk shows in Uganda.

Tributes Pour In

Tributes have continued to pour in from colleagues, institutions, and the wider sports community, describing Ssekamatte as a mentor, intellectual, and humble professional.

The Federation of Uganda Football Associations hailed his contribution to the game, noting his “encyclopedic knowledge of sports” and his role in nurturing a generation of journalists.

Colleagues remembered him not just for his brilliance on air, but also for his generosity behind the scenes.

“He was more than a colleague—he was a teacher to many of us,” one journalist said.

Final Journey

According to family and close associates, Ssekamatte will be laid to rest on Friday in Butambala District.

His passing marks the end of an era in Ugandan sports journalism, with many noting that his voice, wit, and depth of knowledge will be difficult to replace.

As Uganda reflects on his life, Ssekamatte is remembered not only for his professional excellence but also for the lives he touched and the standards he set in the industry.

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