Ugandan music icon Jose Chameleone has opened up about his journey through a life-threatening health scare that has inspired a profound shift in how he lives — and how he believes.
The legendary Valu Valu and Wale Wale singer, whose real name is Joseph Mayanja, recently travelled to Kenya for a follow-up medical check-up, following a long and painful battle with acute pancreatitis. For the past year, Chameleone has been in and out of hospitals, both at home and abroad, including a critical visit to the United States for advanced care.
Speaking to reporters upon his arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, the veteran artist didn’t shy away from sharing how his previous lifestyle may have contributed to his condition. “I used to drink heavily — bottles of gin were part of my daily life. I smoked for years. But that life is behind me now,” he said candidly.
The 44-year-old described his recovery as nothing short of miraculous. “I’ve come to see this as my second chance,” Chameleone shared. “What I went through wasn’t just a health issue — it was a wake-up call from God.”
He explained that surviving the ordeal led him to re-evaluate his choices and deepen his spiritual journey. In gratitude, the singer recently held a thanksgiving ceremony to honour his recovery and recommit himself to a more meaningful, spiritually grounded path.
“I’m nearing 50, and I can’t live like I’m still in my twenties,” he said with a reflective smile. “This second chapter of my life is going to be different — healthier, more intentional, and closer to God.”
Chameleone’s story is one of resilience and renewal, showing that even stars can fall — and rise again — stronger than ever.
