KAMPALA, Uganda — Uganda’s internationally acclaimed dance troupe, the Ghetto Kids, have received another major global endorsement after being featured by CNN ahead of their highly anticipated performance alongside Colombian music superstar Shakira during the FIFA World Cup festivities.
The development marks yet another milestone for the Kampala-based dancers, who have risen from humble beginnings in Katwe to become one of Uganda’s most recognizable cultural exports on the international stage.
The group shared their excitement on social media following the CNN feature, thanking Shakira for the opportunity and expressing gratitude to the international broadcaster for highlighting their journey.
“Hey @shakira Thank you this Huge Opportunity! We can’t wait to Perform with you! Big love to @CNN for sharing our story to the World,” the Ghetto Kids posted on X.
The dancers are expected to join Shakira during performances connected to the FIFA World Cup anthem “Dai Dai,” the tournament’s official song performed by Shakira and Nigerian Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy. FIFA officially unveiled “Dai Dai” as the anthem for the 2026 World Cup, which is being hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The Ghetto Kids’ involvement follows a personal invitation from Shakira, who selected the Ugandan troupe to be part of her World Cup performances after noticing their viral dance routines to the song on social media. The singer later shared dance videos featuring the group, further boosting their global visibility.
According to multiple international media reports, the Ghetto Kids are scheduled to perform alongside Shakira during the FIFA World Cup final halftime show at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19, one of the most watched sporting events in the world.
The invitation represents another remarkable chapter in the group’s journey. Founded by Dauda Kavuma in Kampala, the Ghetto Kids first gained international attention through their energetic dance videos and later achieved worldwide recognition after appearing in French Montana’s hit music video Unforgettable. They also reached the finals of Britain’s Got Talent in 2023, winning admiration from audiences across the globe.
Shakira, who has become closely associated with FIFA World Cups through songs such as Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) and La La La (Brazil 2014), returned to the tournament this year with “Dai Dai,” continuing a relationship with football’s biggest event that spans two decades.
The CNN feature has been widely celebrated by Ugandans on social media, with many describing it as a proud moment for the country and a testament to the power of talent, resilience and creativity.
As preparations for the World Cup final continue, the Ghetto Kids are set to showcase Ugandan dance and culture before a global audience of millions, further cementing their status as ambassadors of African talent on the world stage.
