This celebrated Ugandan artist, Jose Chameleone, who is gearing up for a highly anticipated performance in Kigali after an eight-year hiatus, expressed his deep admiration for Rwanda's rapid development. He remarked: “My friend, look at your country! Rwanda is progressing so much, and it is truly amazing.”
Chameleone highlighted that it’s not just Rwanda's impressive development that captured his attention but also the vibrant and authentic culture of its people. He stated: “Rwandans are wonderful people. What I love most about them is their honesty. They speak the truth.”
During an exclusive interview with Rwanda Television ahead of this special concert, Jose Chameleone extended his heartfelt gratitude to President Paul Kagame for his remarkable achievements, ranging from urban development and excellent governance to maintaining security.
He passionately said: “Personally, I love you, Your Excellency President Paul Kagame. May God continue to bless you.”
Chameleone went further to share that he offered President Kagame a special blessing, wishing him unending success and fulfillment in his recently reaffirmed five-year presidential term, as announced on July 15, 2024. The iconic musician affirmed that his respect and admiration for Kagame's leadership are enduring and not limited to just his time in Rwanda; his sentiments have also been expressed publicly on his social media channels.
Returning to Kigali after Eight Years
Jose Chameleone made his grand return to Kigali on Thursday, May 23, 2025, accompanied by Teta Sandra, the mother of his fellow musician Weasel's child. Sandra shares a close and supportive relationship with Chameleone, which has been instrumental in his journey.
Chameleone explained that his eight-year absence from Rwanda was due to several personal challenges, including a period of severe illness coupled with other unavoidable commitments. He reflected: “I was seriously ill and could not return. However, God made a way, and now I am back with you.”
This milestone also marks Chameleone’s 25th anniversary in the music industry, a journey he described as one filled with both hardships and countless blessings. He attributed his resilience and success to divine guidance throughout his career.
He underscored his unwavering commitment to nurturing talent in the music industry, emphasizing that his journey has always been about collaboration and uplifting others. He noted: “Music is not something you do alone. I made it my mission for us as artists to lift each other up. That’s why my journey isn’t just about me.”
Chameleone’s Kigali concert has been organized as a key cultural event aimed at uniting fans of East African music. It serves as a unique opportunity for Rwandans and the friends of Rwanda to reconnect with an artist who has made an indelible mark on their hearts and history.
Jose Chameleone expressed his deep affection for President Paul Kagame, commending his leadership style and dedication to Rwanda's progress.