East London’s Paskaali Ssekasamba’s Candle Burns Out
national Unity Platform (NUP) President Kyagulanyi Mourns Kabaka's London Representative Paskaali Ssekasamba
Uganda Today Edition: According to Joseph Kasumba of Roperfree currently living in Canada, and a long time acquaintance of the deceased for over 32 years, Paskaali lived his life leaving behind an indelible legacy which hopefully, his children will be able to carry on.
Ladies and gentlemen, friends and family, today we gather to honor the life of a remarkable man, Paschal Ssekasamba, or as many of us knew him, Paskaali. His journey was not just one of personal success but of selfless dedication to serving the Ugandan communities in East London with unwavering commitment and boundless compassion.
Paskaali’s story is not just about a successful business proprietor; it’s about the embodiment of brotherhood, sacrifice, and relentless determination. Born in the heart of Uganda, Paskaali’s life took a significant turn when his beloved brother, Mathias Nsubuga, initiated him into the intricate world of grocery selling, particularly the treasured Ugandan staple, Matooke. Little did they know, this would mark the beginning of a legacy that would transcend borders and touch countless lives.
With Mathias as his guiding light, Paskaali ventured into the bustling streets of East London, armed with nothing but a deep-rooted desire to share a piece of home with his fellow Ugandans abroad. His modest grocery store became more than just a place to purchase goods; it became a sanctuary for those longing for a taste of familiarity in a foreign land.
But what truly set Paskaali apart was his selfless dedication to serving his community indiscriminately. Whether you were a new arrival struggling to find your footing or a seasoned resident, Paskaali welcomed you with open arms and a warm smile. He didn’t just see customers; he saw family. And his generosity knew no bounds. Countless times, he extended credit to those in need, understanding that sometimes, a helping hand is all one requires to weather life’s storms. Before the advent of sophisticated money transfer, Paskaali with the honesty of a child helped Ugandan communities in UK to transfer money home.
Paskaali’s impact transcended the confines of his grocery store. He became a pillar of support, a beacon of hope, and a symbol of resilience for the Ugandan diaspora in London. His unwavering commitment to his roots and his people resonated far beyond the aisles of his shop, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him.
Today, as we bid farewell to Paskaali, let us not mourn his passing but celebrate the extraordinary life he lived. Let us carry forward his legacy of compassion, generosity, and unwavering dedication to serving others, regardless of race, religion, or creed. Though he may no longer walk among us, his spirit will forever linger in the hearts of those whose lives he touched. Rest in peace, dear Paskaali, your memory will forever be a blessing to us all.
