Uganda's Ghetto Kids return home to hero's welcome after FIFA performance

Hundreds of Ugandans lined the streets of Kampala on Tuesday to welcome home the Ghetto Kids after the dance group made history by performing at the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Halftime Show alongside Shakira and Burna Boy.

Footage shows cheering crowds greeting the young dancers as they travelled through the city on an open-top bus following their appearance on football's biggest stage.

“I was excited. It was a dream come true because it was our first time dancing at the FIFA World Cup Final. And we were really, really happy to dance with Shakira at the FIFA World Cup,” said Ainomugisha.

She also celebrated the group's achievement, adding, “We are the first Ugandans to perform at the FIFA World Cup.”

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Founder Dauda Kavuma said the performance would have a lasting impact on the children's future.

“It will change their lives because it opens a lot of doors for these children. There are billions of people watching <…> It opens a lot of opportunities for these children,” he said.

Dancer and child activist John Mugisha said the achievement should inspire young people facing difficult circumstances.

“It’s really a big inspiration <...> It shows that you should never lose hope, never give up. No matter what situation you are in, no matter what family you grew up in, you can make it to the whole world," he stressed.

Founded to support children from disadvantaged communities in Kampala, the Ghetto Kids have grown into one of Uganda's most recognised dance groups.

The dancers also appeared in the official music video for Shakira and Burna Boy's FIFA World Cup anthem 'Dai Dai' before joining Shakira on stage during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show.