The music superstar, real name Joseph Mayanja, made the announcement before state officials, including the Acting Governor of Western Equatoria State, Daniel Badagbu, also promising a music school

By Emmanuel Mandella

In a passionate address during South Sudan’s 14th Independence Day celebration at Yambio Freedom Square, East African music legend Dr. Jose Chameleon announced plans to establish a School of Creative Music and Arts in Western Equatoria State.

He said it is time to give back to the people who played a pivotal role in launching his musical career.

“I don’t want to come to South Sudan just to sing and go. South Sudan built me. My first time in South Sudan was in 2002. The people welcomed me. Now I want to love the people back,” Chameleon told the cheering crowd.

The music superstar, whose real name is Joseph Mayanja, made the announcement before state officials, including the Acting Governor of Western Equatoria State, Daniel Badagbu, who pledged to allocate land for the proposed music school.

The commitment signals a historic collaboration between an international artist and a South Sudanese state government in promoting youth empowerment and creative development.

“I requested the acting governor to find a small piece of land in Western Equatoria where I want to build a school of creative music and arts. And the acting governor told me, with the authority bestowed upon him by the people, that it is going to be possible,” said Chameleon.

Dr. Chameleon, who has mentored and inspired generations across Africa, said the goal is to professionalize the music industry in South Sudan, starting with training and nurturing local talent in Western Equatoria.

“My fellow youth, talented people, musicians, I want to bring a school here for you.”

“I want us to have professional musicians and music producers from Western Equatoria. I know you, Juba is a big city, but I want people from there to admire Western Equatoria musicians,” he said.

The legendary artist said his journey from humble beginnings in Uganda should inspire youth across South Sudan to pursue their dreams with discipline and resilience.

“I come from a small family background, but I discovered my talent, I worked hard, and I’m here today. Let me be a good example to you,” Chameleon told young people.

Acting Governor of Western Equatoria State, Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa, welcomed Chameleon’s initiative, describing it as a “landmark opportunity to revitalize youth development, creative industries, and cultural pride” in the region.

“Dr. Chameleon is not just an artist; he is a friend of South Sudan and a partner in building peace and progress. His dream to invest in the education of our youth aligns with our state’s priorities,” Daniel stated.

Other dignitaries present at the Independence celebration were religious leaders, national artists, and community elders, who praised the move and called for unity in making the school a reality.

Dr. Chameleon is one of Africa’s most celebrated musicians, known for blending Afrobeat, reggae, dancehall, and local Ugandan rhythms into award-winning music.

He began his career in the late 1990s and rose to fame with hits like Mama Mia, Valu Valu, and Bayuda. He is also known for his role in promoting peace and unity across East Africa through his music.

Born on April 30, 1979, he studied at Progressive Secondary School and Kawempe Muslim Secondary School in Uganda. His early struggles and persistence made him a symbol of hope for many young artists.

He was honored with a Doctorate of Humanity for his contributions to African music and society.

South Sudan’s music industry, particularly in Western Equatoria State, faces several obstacles, including a lack of professional training and institutions, limited access to music production equipment and studios, poor copyright laws and enforcement, low investment in arts and creative talent and insecurity and displacement affecting artist mobility and expression.

While national musicians like DJ Cent, Mr. No Rest and Juna De Star have risen from grassroots efforts, many talents remain untapped due to structural barriers.

Dr. Chameleon’s proposed school could become a turning point, providing formal training, equipment, and exposure for aspiring artists.

Before closing his speech, Chameleon reminded the audience of the importance of peace, crediting the current calm environment for making such developments possible.

“If it wasn’t for the peace the government fought for, we wouldn’t be here today. If there is no peace, there is no happiness. And if people are sad, there is no life,” he said.

As the people of Western Equatoria continue to rebuild and heal, Chameleon’s move is more than a celebrity gesture; it’s a bold investment in the cultural and creative future of South Sudan. With political goodwill, youth enthusiasm, and regional cooperation, the proposed School of Creative Music and Arts could soon become a symbol of unity, talent, and transformation in the heart of Africa.

“We are not only Ugandan. We are not only in South Sudan. We are Africans and African artists,” Chameleone emphasized.