Veteran Ugandan musician Joseph Mayanja, widely known as Jose Chameleone, has revealed that he has quit smoking and drinking, deciding for the sake of his health.
The singer, who is currently in Kenya, shared that after years of indulging in smoking and drinking, he has now chosen to leave them behind as part of a new chapter in his life.
“I have been flipping some bottles, enjoying myself. I have been a smoker all my life, but for the sake of myself and my health, I put that aside. I do not smoke anymore; I do not drink anymore,” Chameleone said.
The legendary singer, who is now approaching 50 years of age, reflected on his journey and the lessons he has learnt.
“God has given me two episodes, the first round in the past, and now we are starting the second round. I am just three years away from 50 years; I have to slow down,” he added.
Chameleone emphasised that his decision to change his lifestyle was not only about personal health but also about his spiritual journey.
“People must know that I am a God-fearing person. I am a believer. I put God before everything; before the doctors did their job, God did his own. God was the first healer. I have been praying to God to be a better person, and this time round, I came to God and prayed for others. I was not the only one in the hospital
On April 17, 2025, the singer held a Thanksgiving mass at St Joseph Church, Lweza, Entebbe Road, in Uganda, days after being discharged from the hospital.
Jose Chameleon’s health
In February 2025, in a video shared by his best friend, Ugandan musician and businesswoman Juliet Zawedde, the singer was shown being lifted from the couch to a wheelchair and then to the ambulance.
Taking to her social channels, Zawedde disclosed that Chameleone was unwell and had been taken to the hospital.
“My bestie is not feeling well today; he has been taken to the hospital…. I pray for you, my dear friend Chameleone. I know you’re currently unwell. May the Lord grant you a healing touch and restore your health and strength. Comfort you in your pain and give you the courage to face this challenge. May you know that you’re loved and supported during this time,” she wrote.
Chameleone had been hospitalised in Uganda in late 2024 before being transferred to the United States for further medical attention at Allina Health Mercy Hospital in Minnesota.