The road from the streets of Kampala to the biggest stage in world football just got a lot shorter for Uganda’s famous Ghetto Kids. Colombian music icon Shakira has officially invited the talented dance troupe to perform alongside her during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final halftime show.
The announcement arrived through a video posted on Shakira’s Instagram account on May 20, 2026, instantly creating excitement among fans across the globe.
The performance is set for July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. It will also mark a major first for FIFA. For the first time in World Cup history, the final will feature a dedicated halftime show similar to those seen at major American sporting events.
For the Ghetto Kids, this is more than a performance. It is a chance to showcase their talent before millions of viewers and prove that dreams can grow from even the toughest circumstances.
Viral Dance Journey Reaches New Heights
E News / The Ghetto Kids have spent years turning passion, energy, and creativity into opportunities that have taken them around the world.
Based in Katwe, a densely populated community in Kampala, Uganda, the organization was founded in 2014 by Dauda Kavuma. Having experienced life as a street child himself, Kavuma wanted to create a safe space where vulnerable children could learn, perform, and build a brighter future through dance and the arts.
What began as a small community effort quickly gained global attention. Their breakthrough came after a video of the children dancing to Eddy Kenzo’s hit song "Sitya Loss" spread across social media platforms.
That viral moment opened doors few could have imagined. The group later appeared in French Montana’s hugely popular "Unforgettable" music video, performed during events connected to the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, and impressed audiences during their run to the finals of Britain's Got Talent.
How Shakira Chose the Ghetto Kids?
The invitation did not happen by accident. It grew out of a global dance movement linked to Shakira’s latest World Cup anthem, "Dai Dai."
The track features Nigerian superstar Burna Boy and blends Afrobeats, dance pop, reggaetón, and international rhythms into one energetic song. Since its release, Shakira has encouraged fans everywhere to create dance videos and share them online.
She actively followed the submissions and regularly interacted with fans participating in the challenge. Among the many videos posted online, the Ghetto Kids stood out with performances that captured attention through their energy, precision, and unmistakable joy.
Their dance clips quickly gained traction online. Fans shared them widely, and the videos soon became some of the most talked-about entries connected to the song.
Shakira clearly noticed. Her personal invitation confirmed that the group's performances had made a lasting impression. By bringing the Ghetto Kids onto the World Cup stage, she is turning a social media success story into a global moment.
A Historic World Cup Performance Awaits
Shakira / IG / The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final halftime show is expected to be one of the largest entertainment events of the year.
Shakira will share the spotlight with several major international stars, including American pop legend Madonna and global K-pop sensation BTS. Together, they will help launch a new era of World Cup entertainment.
For the Ghetto Kids, performing alongside artists of that caliber represents a remarkable achievement. Few dance groups from Africa have received such a prominent opportunity on a worldwide stage.
The children themselves have spoken openly about their excitement. Eight-year-old Busingye Josephine Daniella said the group cannot wait to show the world who they are. Sixteen-year-old Ssegirinyi Madwanah described the opportunity as life-changing and filled with possibilities.
Founder Dauda Kavuma also sees the invitation as an important step forward for the organization. He hopes the international exposure will help attract support for a planned rehabilitation and education center aimed at helping more vulnerable children.