Jackie Chandiru, born on September 13, 1984, is a renowned Ugandan singer often called the “Queen of the Nile.” She rose to fame as the lead vocalist of Blu*3, a successful all-female music group in Uganda and East Africa. Her career has seen extraordinary achievements, alongside notable personal challenges including her victory over drug addiction.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Jackie Chandiru |
| Date of Birth | September 13, 1984 |
| Place of Birth | Nsambya Hospital, Kampala, Uganda |
| Nationality | Ugandan |
| Partner | Formerly married to Nol Van Vliet (2015–2017) |
| Children | None |
| Occupations | Singer, songwriter, musician |
| Record Labels | Initially Fenon Records (Blu*3), currently Nyumba256 Music |
| Net Worth | Approximately $320,000 |
Early Life and Education
Jackie was born at Nsambya Hospital in Kampala to Felix and Josephine Eyaa. Her father hails from Kijomoro Village in Maracha District, while her mother is a Muganda from the Buganda region and lived in London for 20 years.
She began her schooling at Lugogo Nursery and Nakasero Primary. Passionate about sports during her early years, she played football and badminton and was involved in her school’s drama club.
Her secondary education was completed at Nabisunsa Girls’ Secondary School (O-Level) and Vienna College International (A-Level). Jackie earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Industrial Fine Art from Makerere University.
Career
Blu*3 Era
Jackie’s breakthrough began in 2002 when she won the Coca-Cola Pop Star competition with Lilian Mbabazi and Cindy Sanyu. Together, they formed Blu*3, managed by Steve Jean under Fenon Records.
The group earned numerous awards, such as Best Artist/Group from Uganda and multiple Pearl of Africa Music Awards. Their work earned nominations across Africa, including the Kora and MTV Africa Music Awards.
After Cindy Sanyu left in 2008, Jackie and Lilian continued with new member Mya Baganda until 2010.
Solo Career
Jackie launched her solo career in 2010 with the single “Agassi,” released in both Lugbara and English, winning her several awards.
She has since released many popular songs such as “Gold Digger,” “Gwoyagala,” “Overdose,” and “Don’t Call His Phone,” collaborating with various artists from East Africa and beyond. She also appeared on “Coke Studio Africa” Season 2 in 2014.
Personal Life
Jackie has experienced several relationship challenges, including a public feud linked to her relationship with lawyer Caleb Alaka, and a brief marriage to Dutch businessman Nol Van Vliet from 2015 to 2017. She has openly expressed her deep longing to have children.
Addiction Struggle
Following a back injury in 2004, Jackie became addicted to pethidine, a painkiller prescribed for her injury, leading to severe addiction issues.
This struggle affected her career and personal life significantly, causing multiple hospitalizations and rehabilitation attempts. After years of hardship, she successfully overcame addiction and now uses her experience to support others facing similar battles.
Jackie Chandiru Net Worth
Jackie’s net worth is estimated at approximately $320,000. Though her addiction challenges impacted her career trajectory, she remains an influential figure in Ugandan music.
Discography
Albums
- Agaasi Collection Volume 1 (2005)
- To Live or Die (2011/2022)
- Nawe (2015/2017)
- Afii (2015)
Notable Singles
- “Agassi” (2010)
- “Gold Digger” (2011)
- “Gwoyagala”
- “Overdose”
- “Malkia”
- “Kikiri” (2024)
- “Monica” (2024)
- “The One” (2020)
Awards and Nominations
Awards
- 2005 Kisima Music Awards: Best Artist/Group & Best Music Video (with Blu*3)
- 2005 and 2007 Pearl of Africa Music Awards: Video of the Year
- 2011 Pearl of Africa Music Awards: Video of the Year for “Agassi”
- Diva Awards: Best R&B Single for “Agassi”
Nominations
- Kora Awards, Tanzania Music Awards, Channel O, MTV Africa Music Awards for best group, album, and song categories mostly with Blu*3.
