Allan Ssekamatte: The Laid-Back Sports Pundit Who Captivated Uganda

Allan Ssekamatte was a unique figure in Ugandan sports journalism, blending a relaxed demeanor with profound insights. Often moving at his own unhurried pace, he hid a brilliant mind beneath his easygoing exterior.

In 2006, during the tense presidential election between Yoweri Museveni and Kizza Besigye, Ssekamatte surprised many by offering sharp analysis on voter trends in districts like Bundibugyo, Kabarole, and Kasese on KFM radio. Though primarily a sports editor under whom the author worked, his political commentary impressed enough to make him a regular through the vote count.

He stepped into the spotlight replacing Kenneth Matovu on WBS’s popular Sport-On show in the early 2000s, joining Joseph Kabuleta and Mark Ssali. Mark Ssali remembered Ssekamatte as the ‘final piece in the jigsaw,’ holding his ground in heated live debates with skillful oratory.

Colleagues cherished working with him for his principled stance, free of spite or dishonesty. A devoted Chelsea fan, Ssekamatte’s match days—win, lose, or draw—often led to lively celebrations that challenged producers, as recalled by Innocent Ndawula.

Despite his public persona, Ssekamatte was introverted, confiding mainly in a small circle including classmates Jamil Ssewanyana and Mike Mutebi. He battled a chronic heart condition treated in India and later depression, evident in erratic social media posts.

Ssekamatte, survived by two daughters and Sheebah Bwengwe, died Wednesday from multiple organ failure. He will be buried Friday at 2pm in Nsenene village, Butambala district.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)