Ugandan social media users have been plunged into mourning following the death of popular TikTok personality Timothy Kayanja, popularly known as Jayden. The news of his death was confirmed on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, by fellow Ugandan TikToker Sheila Price, who described the development as devastating.
Jayden had become a familiar face on Ugandan social media through his humorous and engaging content. He enjoyed making people laugh as he commented on everyday life and Ugandan culture. His popularity grew significantly as he continued creating content despite facing serious health challenges.
According to reports, Jayden had battled sickle cell disease for many years, with his condition later becoming complicated by aplastic anaemia, a serious disorder in which the bone marrow does not produce enough blood cells.
His health situation attracted widespread public attention after he appealed to Ugandans and other well-wishers for financial assistance to access specialised treatment.
His health crisis became particularly serious in late 2025. The doctors admitted him to TMR International Hospital in Naalya after he experienced chest pain, breathing difficulties, and low oxygen.
Doctors reported that he was suffering from complications associated with sickle cell disease and later identified problems with his bone marrow.
The diagnosis led to a major fundraising campaign involving fellow content creators, friends, fans and members of the public. The campaign aimed to raise millions of shillings required for specialised treatment, including a bone marrow transplant.
Many Ugandans followed Jayden’s medical journey closely and contributed financially or used their social media platforms to amplify appeals for help.
In July 2026, Jayden underwent a bone marrow procedure in India, and renewed hope followed. On July 8, Gideon Nova Kwikiriza announced that Jayden had come out of theatre. He was reportedly out of danger.
The announcement brought relief to many of his supporters who had prayed and contributed towards his treatment.
However, his recovery later took a worrying turn. Gideon Kwikiriza—one of the fundraising campaign organizers—stated that Jayden’s health deteriorated several weeks prior to his death.
According to Kwikiriza, Jayden initially showed encouraging signs after the procedure. Jayden even spoke with Kwikiriza in a WhatsApp video call, expressing hope for returning to Uganda. His condition later worsened, leaving friends and supporters praying for his recovery.
Kwikiriza remembered Jayden as a cheerful and resilient young man who continued making people laugh despite the difficulties he faced. He praised Jayden’s courage throughout his long battle with illness and expressed condolences to his family, friends and everyone who supported him.
Officials failed to fully detail the circumstances and exact place of Jayden’s death in the initial reports. We anticipate receiving further information from his family and medical team as arrangements are made.
Jayden’s death has sparked an outpouring of grief across social media, with fans and fellow creators sharing memories, messages of condolence and tributes.
His journey has also highlighted the challenges faced by people living with serious blood disorders and the importance of medical support and community assistance.
Jayden will be remembered by many followers for his entertaining TikTok videos, courage, and ability to bring happiness.
May Timothy Kayanja, known to many as Jayden, rest in peace.