Chameleone Back Home, But Set to Return to the United States for More Treatment

Ugandan music legend Jose Chameleone is back in the country after spending over three months in the United States receiving medical treatment.

He returned on Saturday, but his stay in Uganda will be brief, as he plans to return to America in early May to continue his recovery.

Chameleone, whose real name is Joseph Mayanja, was first admitted to Nakasero Hospital in December 2024, where he was diagnosed with acute pancreatitis.

As his condition worsened, doctors determined that he needed more advanced care, and later that month, he was flown to the United States, where further tests confirmed the diagnosis.

Speaking to journalists shortly after his return, Chameleone opened up about the tough journey he has gone through since falling ill.

“My illness had progressed to a point where my pancreas could no longer produce the enzymes needed to digest food,” he revealed.

To support his recovery, the singer is currently on medication that helps him digest food properly.

Although his condition has improved, Chameleone made it clear that he is still not completely well.

“I am not fully recovered,” he said, adding, “I came back home because I was homesick and needed to be here, but I will return to the U.S. around May 2nd for a follow-up review.”

In response to speculation that alcohol might be the cause of his condition, Chameleone set the record straight, explaining that the illness resulted from a combination of factors.

“People focused only on the alcohol narrative, but it is more complex than that,” he said.

According to the singer, his doctors pointed to genetics, stress, poor eating habits, and lack of sleep as contributing causes of his illness.

As he continues to recover, Chameleone’s family has organised thanksgiving prayers to thank God for his life.

The prayers will be held this coming Monday at Lweza Parish, and fans and well-wishers are expected to attend and show their support.