Ghetto Kids Join Shakira at World Cup

Uganda's Ghetto Kids are set to join global superstar Shakira at the 2026 FIFA World Cup's final halftime show, bringing a unique flavor of African dance to the world's biggest sporting stage. The news has sparked excitement among fans, who are eagerly anticipating the tournament's opening ceremony and the various performances that will take place. The Ghetto Kids, founded by Dauda Kavuma in Kampala, have been making waves in the dance world for over a decade with their signature choreography.

What Happened

The announcement was made by Shakira via a video message to her fans, where she explained that she wants to create a unique performance by bringing together different dance talents from around the world. The Ghetto Kids are among those officially invited to join her on stage, alongside other international acts Madonna and BTS. During the show, Shakira is expected to perform 'Dai Dai', the official tournament anthem she recently released featuring Nigerian artist Burna Boy. The halftime show will take place on 19 July at the New York New Jersey Stadium.

Inside the Rollout

The Ghetto Kids have been making waves in the dance world for over a decade, with their big break coming when they featured in French Montana's 'Unforgettable' music video, which has garnered millions of views on YouTube. They have also performed at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and reached the finals of Britain's Got Talent, showcasing their talent to a global audience. The inclusion of African artists in the World Cup lineup is a significant development, and a recognition of the continent's growing influence in the global music industry.

• Founding member: Dauda Kavuma
• Formation location: Kampala, Uganda
• Notable performance: 'Unforgettable' music video

Why It Matters

The partnership between Shakira and the Ghetto Kids is a testament to the growing recognition of African music and dance globally. The FIFA World Cup's decision to feature African talent in its halftime show is a nod to the continent's rich cultural heritage and its increasing popularity on the global stage. The inclusion of Rema and Tyla in the opening ceremony lineup adds to the strong lineup of African talent confirmed for the tournament.

The Takeaway

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is shaping up to be a celebration of music and dance from around the world, with African talent taking center stage. The halftime show, which will feature Shakira, Madonna, BTS, and the Ghetto Kids, is expected to be one of the highlights of the tournament. As the world watches, the Ghetto Kids will have the opportunity to showcase their unique style and inspire young dancers from Africa and around the world.