Parliament has celebrated the Ghetto Kids for taking the country’s flag to one of the world’s biggest sporting stages.
Speaker Jacob Markson Oboth described the young dancers as a powerful reminder that talent can emerge from even the most difficult circumstances.
The Speaker made the remarks while presiding over plenary on Thursday, 20 August 2026, shortly after the Kampala-based dance troupe returned from the United States, where they performed alongside global music stars Shakira and Burna Boy during the historic halftime show at the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
The Ghetto Kids’ appearance at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19 marked Uganda’s most visible cultural moment at the tournament. The group performed to Dai Dai, the World Cup song by Shakira and Burna Boy, before a global audience.
Introducing the young dancers seated in the public gallery to observe proceedings of the House, Oboth said their achievement went beyond entertainment and offered a lesson about what opportunity can do for young Ugandans.
“At their age, these young stars, called the Ghetto Kids, have stood on platforms that many can only dream of; carrying our Ugandan flag higher and making Uganda proud.”
The Speaker said he identified personally with the group’s journey from hardship to international recognition, adding that the dancers demonstrated that poverty or humble beginnings should not become a permanent ceiling on a young person’s ambitions.
“They are a powerful reminder that talent can come from anywhere and that with opportunity and determination, our young people can rise to extraordinary heights,” he said.
The Speaker then recognised the young performers by name: Clara Ainemugisha, Ricky Banyomera, Teiyomera Keisha Maria G., Josephine Busingye, Acram Mayanja, Madrana Ssegirinya, Shaqib Muwoma, Ketra Aumot Maria G., Vanessa Namautebi, Jason Watumu, Ashraf Baziira and Ivan Kiseka.
The Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi, joined the Speaker in congratulating the young performers, framing their achievement as evidence of the power of perseverance. “It always seems impossible until it is done,” he said.
He urged the young performers not to allow the obstacles they encounter to define their future.
Hon. John Baptist Nambeshe, the MP for Manjiya County, also praised the group, saying their journey demonstrated that a person’s origins should not determine their destiny.
Founded by Dauda Kavuma, the group has built a global profile through viral dance performances and appearances alongside international entertainers.
The group’s journey has also previously taken them to Britain’s Got Talent, where they received a Golden Buzzer and eventually finished sixth.
The group had prior to the plenary met the Speaker in his board room where they presented a request for support to construct a Shs13 billion skills centre to empower vulnerable youth across Uganda.
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