Uganda's Ghetto Kids dance troupe 'can't wait' for World Cup show with Shakira

A group of young dancers from Uganda, known as the Ghetto Kids, are preparing for what could be the biggest performance of their careers, an appearance alongside Colombian singer Shakira at the FIFA World Cup final halftime show in the United States on july 19.

The group says the opportunity followed the success of a social media video they created using one of Shakira’s songs, which attracted attention from the singer’s team.

Their founder and coach, Dauda Kavuma, said initial contact came after the video gained traction online.

“We did a video for Shakira’s song, then her team contacted us and she asked if we would like to perform at the FIFA World Cup halftime show,” he said.

The Ghetto Kids organisation was established in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, and uses dance and the performing arts to support vulnerable children, including orphans and those living on the streets.

Over the years, the group has built an international following, with their energetic performances and online videos reaching millions of viewers globally.

For the young dancers, the prospect of performing on one of the world’s biggest stages marks a significant milestone.

“We feel so excited. We can’t wait to perform with Shakira. Getting on one of the biggest stages in the world, where many people are watching, always feels good and brings a lot of opportunities,” one member, Josephine Busingye said.

The FIFA World Cup final typically attracts a global television audience of more than one billion people, offering significant exposure for performers.

The group says it hopes the attention will also help support its wider mission, including plans to establish a rehabilitation and education centre for vulnerable children in Uganda.