Renowned songstress Jackie Chandiru has opened up about her decision to leave Uganda for a period, during which she underwent rehabilitation to address her addiction to pethidine and the resulting depression.
In an interview with NBS TV, Chandiru revealed that she had been subjected to considerable criticism and needed a space where she could shield herself from the psychological toll it was taking.
“I just went out because I realized that social media was not kind to me at that time, and I needed to focus on my psychological recovery to regain my footing. You know, drugs can weaken you mentally,” explained Chandiru.
Recognizing that the environment in Uganda was not conducive for her healing, she and her support system made the decision to take her out of the country.
In 2020, Jackie Chandiru, formerly a member of the group Blu*3, was admitted to Naguru Hospital and Bunamwaya Rehabilitation Centre for treatment.
When her health did not improve, she was transferred to Kenya. She had initially turned to pethidine to manage persistent back pain resulting from an accident.
Pethidine, a synthetic opioid, carries a range of side effects, including oversleeping, euphoria, lightheadedness, sedation, dizziness, sweating, hallucinations, constipation, nausea, and vomiting.
After leaving Uganda, Chandiru first journeyed to Europe before settling in Nairobi. According to her interview, she has been clean for four years.
Jackie Chandiru’s musical journey began after she participated in Coca-Cola Popstars, where she crossed paths with Steve Jean.
He then teamed her up with Lilian Mbabazi and Cindy to form the iconic group Blu*3 in 2004. Chandiru’s educational background includes attendance at Lugogo Nursery School, Nakasero Primary School, Nabisunsa Girls Secondary School, Vienna College Namugongo, and Makerere University, where she pursued a degree in Industrial Fine Art.
