Uganda’s internationally acclaimed Ghetto Kids are set to make history by performing during the first-ever halftime show at a FIFA World Cup final, completing an extraordinary journey from the streets of Kampala to one of the world’s biggest sporting events. The celebrated dance group will share the global stage with Colombian superstar Shakira, Nigerian music icon Burna Boy, and a lineup of internationally renowned artists during the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at New York New Jersey Stadium.
Their appearance marks a defining moment not only for the young performers but also for Uganda’s creative industry, showcasing African talent before millions of viewers around the world. The Ghetto Kids are expected to join Shakira and Burna Boy in performing the official 2026 FIFA World Cup anthem, “Dai Dai,” during what FIFA has described as a groundbreaking entertainment spectacle inspired by the Super Bowl halftime show.
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The group’s inspiring story began on the streets of Kampala, where children from disadvantaged communities recorded energetic dance videos that quickly gained international attention through social media. Originally known as the Triplets Ghetto Kids, the collective rose to global fame after appearing in the music video for Ugandan artist Eddy Kenzo’s hit song “Sitya Loss” in 2014, a performance that introduced their exceptional talent to audiences around the world.
Their growing popularity led to appearances on major international platforms, including Britain’s Got Talent in 2023, where they won praise for their creativity, energy and powerful storytelling through dance. Since then, the group has collaborated with global artists including Chris Brown, met football legends such as Lionel Messi and Sergio Agüero, and earned multiple international honors, including awards from the African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA) and the African Entertainment Awards USA as Best Dance Group.
Today, the Ghetto Kids command an enormous global audience, with more than 9 million Instagram followers and 13 million TikTok followers, making them one of Africa’s most influential youth entertainment groups. Their performances continue to inspire millions while demonstrating the power of creativity to transform lives.
Behind the success of the group is the Inspire Ghetto Kids Foundation, a Ugandan non-governmental organization founded in 2007 by Kavuma Dauda. A mathematician by profession and a former street child himself, Dauda established the organization to provide vulnerable children with opportunities through dance, music and education. Beyond artistic development, the foundation offers food, shelter, healthcare and schooling to approximately 60 orphaned and disadvantaged children, creating a safe environment where young people can pursue their dreams.
The invitation to perform at the FIFA World Cup came after Shakira watched a viral video of the children performing an improvised dance routine to her song “Zoo” from the animated film Zootopia 2. Impressed by their talent and enthusiasm, the Colombian superstar invited the dancers to join her not only at the World Cup halftime show but also during her concert in New Jersey earlier this month, where they shared the stage and spent time exploring New York together.
Their appearance at the FIFA World Cup final represents more than a performance, it is a powerful symbol of hope, resilience and opportunity. From humble beginnings in Kampala to sharing the spotlight with some of the world’s biggest entertainers, the Ghetto Kids have become ambassadors for African creativity and proof that talent, determination and community support can overcome even the greatest challenges.
As the world watches the historic halftime show, Uganda’s Ghetto Kids will not only entertain millions but also inspire a new generation of young Africans to dream beyond their circumstances and believe that the global stage is within reach.
