Tanzanian rapper and politician Joseph ‘Professor Jay’ Haule has shared a deeply personal and poignant story of his battle with life-threatening health issues, revealing that during his hospitalization, his family made the difficult decision to sell his properties to fund his treatment. This revelation has shocked many of his fans, yet Professor Jay emphasizes that he holds no resentment toward his family, focusing instead on his recovery and plans for the future.
At 48 years old, the former Mikumi Member of Parliament and renowned rapper was at the peak of his career when illness struck. In January 2022, he fell critically ill at his home, a health crisis that led to him being admitted to the Lugalo Military Hospital. His condition continued to deteriorate, necessitating a transfer to Muhimbili National Hospital, one of Tanzania’s leading medical facilities. What followed was a harrowing 462-day battle for survival, during which he was in and out of consciousness, spending a large part of his time in a vegetative state.
Professor Jay’s illness was marked by kidney failure, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, among other serious health complications. For much of this time, he was unconscious and depended on medical tubes for breathing, eating, and excretion. His prognosis was grim; doctors told him that he had only a 40 percent chance of survival, and at one point, he even attempted to end his suffering by removing his dialysis tubes. In an interview reflecting on this dark period, he admitted he had lost hope, believing that death was inevitable.
During this extended hospital stay, Professor Jay’s family made a series of decisions on his behalf, including the sale of his properties. The rapper revealed that he was unaware of these transactions, stating that his siblings sold most of his assets to fund his medical expenses without his consent. Although these decisions were made with the intention of saving his life, Professor Jay does not hold any ill feelings toward his family. In a candid admission, he shared that he understood their actions, acknowledging that the most important thing was that he survived, despite the slim chances.
“I’m starting over. Since I got sick, my siblings sold most of my assets to save my life. I don’t regret it because the most important thing is that I’m alive today, even when the chances of survival were slim. You can always rebuild wealth,” he said, demonstrating a remarkable sense of resilience.
His experience has not only been a medical journey but also a personal one. It has forced him to reconsider his values and priorities, especially as he looks to rebuild his wealth. The rapper and politician, known for his hard-hitting social commentary in his music, has shifted his focus from material wealth to the priceless value of life itself. His health struggles have been a humbling reminder that while wealth can be lost, life cannot be replaced.
As Professor Jay continues his recovery, he has made it clear that he is not just focusing on personal healing but also on his political ambitions. He has announced his intention to run for the Mikumi MP seat in Tanzania’s 2025 general elections. By then, he will be 50 years old, and his experience as a former legislator and his health battle have only strengthened his resolve to continue serving his community.
Professor Jay’s story is one of resilience, hope, and redemption. His journey reminds us that even in the darkest of times, there is a possibility for renewal. He has not only fought for his life but is now fighting for a future that includes both his recovery and his return to public service. As he works towards rebuilding his wealth and political career, Professor Jay exemplifies the power of perseverance, proving that no matter how much you lose, as long as you have life, you can always start over.
