Celebrated Ugandan music legend Jose Chameleone is expected to return to Uganda on April 12, 2025, after spending several months in the United States undergoing medical treatment. Sources close to the Mayanja family confirm that the singer, real name Joseph Mayanja, will board his return flight on April 11 and land in Kampala the next day.
Chameleone, who had been receiving treatment at Allina Health Mercy Hospital in Minnesota, was flown out of the country in late December 2024 after being diagnosed with acute pancreatitis, a serious condition affecting the pancreas.
The singer had earlier been admitted to Nakasero Hospital in Kampala before his condition worsened a rare move, the Government of Uganda, through President Yoweri Museveni, stepped in to cover Chameleone’s overseas medical costs. The intervention came after visits by Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, Balaam Barugahara, who confirmed government support for the ailing star.
The gesture sparked wide public discussion, with many hailing the move as a show of respect for Chameleone’s decades-long contribution to Uganda’s music Chameleone was accompanied to the U.S. by his brother Weasel Manizo ,Bushoke and family friend and businesswoman Juliet Zawedde, who reportedly provided personal support throughout his treatment. His son, Abba Marcus, made a heartfelt public appeal, acknowledging his father’s past struggles with alcohol and calling on fans to stand by him during recovery.
The message resonated deeply with fans, many of whom took to social media to send messages of love and support under the hashtag #PrayForChameleone.Prior to falling ill, Chameleone had planned a massive comeback show at the newly revamped Nakivubo Stadium, aiming to make history by filling the venue.
However, the concert plan hit a major snag after it was revealed that alcohol is not permitted on stadium grounds—a factor that reportedly affected sponsorship negotiations.While rumors continue to circulate, it remains unclear whether Chameleone will move forward with the concert plans or opt for a different venue. Sources say discussions are still ongoing.Fans across the country are eagerly awaiting the return of the Bayuda hitmaker, who celebrated his 25-year milestone in music with the high-profile Legend in Gold concert at Kampala Serena Hotel in September 2024.With his health now reportedly stable and spirits high, the focus shifts to what’s next for one of East Africa’s biggest musical exports. Whether it’s another major concert or a new music release, one thing is certain—Jose Chameleone is not done yet.Stay tuned to Kampala Edge Times Blog for exclusive updates on his return and future projects.
