The sports journalism fraternity is mourning the loss of veteran journalist Allan Ssekamatte, who passed away on Wednesday night at Kiruddu Hospital after battling a heart condition.
Ssekamatte, widely respected for his insightful reporting and engaging presentation style, rose to prominence while at WBS TV, where he co-presented Sports alongside Mark Ssali and Joseph Kabuleeta.
“Dear friends, our beloved Allan Ssekamatte has passed on at Kiruddu Hospital. So long my brother, may God take charge,” Ssali announced on social media at 10:35 pm on Wednesday.
Throughout his career, Ssekamatte also worked with Daily Monitor, NBS TV, and KFM, Radio One among others, leaving a lasting impact on colleagues and aspiring journalists alike.
CBS presenter David Lumansi paid tribute to Ssekamatte’s influence: “The trio of Mark Ssali, Allan & Kabuleeta inspired me into this job while they were working on Monitor FM in 2002. I told myself that I could try what they did… Allan showed the way.”
Fellow journalists and friends flooded social media with condolences.
Mark Namanya said: “I worked with Allan Ssekamatte. We argued, laughed, debated, disagreed—but I was always in awe of his brilliance. Allan was a marvel; a very intelligent man who had, like all of us, shortcomings. RIP Mr Simonsen.”
Clive Kyazze noted, “Your contribution to sports journalism will never be taken for granted,” while Joseph Beyanga described him as “a versatile, brilliant sports journalist… very knowledgeable in a wide range of subjects and a gentle soul.”
Ismael Kiyonga added: “A legend in his game has rested. You inspired generations especially on Sport On with JKabuleta and Mark Ssali. Rest in eternal peace Allan.”
Hassan Badru Zziwa and Albert Ahabwe also expressed their grief and admiration, with Ahabwe writing, “One of the best to ever do it! Rest well Allan, pole sana to everyone that holds his memory!”
Allan Ssekamatte’s legacy in Ugandan sports journalism is remembered for his professionalism, mentorship, and passion for the game.