Ugandan music legend Joseph Mayanja alias Jose Chameleone has announced plans to return to the United States in early May to continue medical treatment, following a recent visit home after months of illness.
The Leone Island Empire boss touched down in Uganda on Saturday after spending over three months in the U.S., where Jose Chameleone has been receiving care for a serious health condition.
Jose Chameleone was initially admitted to Nakasero Hospital in Kampala late last year, where he was diagnosed with pancreatitis , a condition that occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed.
Due to the severity of his condition, he was flown to the U.S. in December for advanced treatment, where doctors confirmed the diagnosis and carried out surgery in February
Speaking at a press conference shortly after his arrival, Chameleone shared details of his medical journey.
“My illness had progressed to a point where my pancreas could no longer produce the enzymes needed to digest food,” he revealed.
Although his health has significantly improved, Chameleone stressed that he is still on the road to recovery.
“I am not fully recovered,” he said. “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.”
He also disclosed that he is currently on a medication called Creon (pancrelipase), which aids in digestion for patients with pancreatic enzyme deficiencies. A three-month dose of the medication costs around $8,000 (approximately UGX 30 million).
Addressing speculation about the cause of his illness, Chameleone clarified that it wasn’t solely due to alcohol consumption. Citing advice from his medical team, he explained that his condition was the result of a combination of factors — including genetics, stress, poor eating habits, and lack of sleep.
“People focused only on the alcohol narrative, but it’s more complex than that,” he said.
As he continues his recovery journey, Chameleone’s family has organized thanksgiving prayers, which will take place at Lweza Parish this coming Monday, where fans and well-wishers are expected to join in prayer and support .
We’ll continue to bring you updates on Chameleone’s journey to recovery.
