Uganda’s Ghetto Kids will dance with Shakira at World Cup final halftime show
From dancing barefoot on the dusty streets of Kampala to the global stage of the FIFA World Cup, the Ugandan dance troupe known as the Ghetto Kids is preparing for their most significant performance yet. Shakira officially announced that the group will join her for the tournament’s final on July 19 at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium.
The troupe, which consists of 60 children between the ages of 4 and 16, has already collaborated with the Colombian superstar on the video for “Dai Dai,” the official tournament anthem. For these performers, who grew up in poverty, the opportunity to dance alongside a global icon in front of an audience of over a billion people represents a monumental milestone in their journey.
From Viral Sensations to Global Stages
The Ghetto Kids first rose to prominence in 2014, when a video of five members dancing to Eddy Kenzo’s “Sitya Loss” went viral. Founded by their manager, Dauda Kavuma, the group was created as a foundation to support orphaned and vulnerable children in Uganda—a country where decades of conflict have left nearly 1.7 million children orphaned.
Over the last decade, the group has refined their craft, moving from low-resolution viral clips to intricate choreography on platforms like “America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League” and “Britain’s Got Talent.” Despite their rise to international fame, Kavuma maintains that their core mission remains the same: using music, dance, and drama to improve the lives of the children in his care.
Navigating Uncertainty
While the group is preparing for their performance, the trip remains subject to external challenges. Uganda is currently managing an outbreak of Ebola, with seven confirmed cases and one death, leading authorities to close the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Current U.S. Travel regulations prohibit entry for individuals who have visited Uganda, Congo, or South Sudan within 21 days, barring American citizens.
If these travel restrictions remain in place, the group may face significant logistical hurdles in reaching New Jersey. However, Kavuma remains optimistic about their participation, expressing faith that the performance will proceed as planned.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the Ghetto Kids?
The Ghetto Kids are a Ugandan dance troupe consisting of 60 children, ages 4 to 16, who were brought together through a foundation established by manager Dauda Kavuma to support vulnerable and orphaned children.
How did the group become famous?
They first gained international attention in 2014 after a video of them dancing to “Sitya Loss” by Eddy Kenzo went viral. Since then, they have appeared on various talent competition shows and in music videos.
Why is there uncertainty regarding their World Cup performance?
The performance is currently facing uncertainty due to an Ebola outbreak in Uganda. Current U.S. Travel policies restrict entry for those who have recently visited the region, which could potentially impact the group’s ability to travel to New Jersey for the July 19 final.
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