Uganda Parliament recognizes Ghetto Kids performance at FIFA World Cup 2026
Christopher Kibazanga said the Ghetto Kids’ success should challenge government and society to provide greater opportunities and support for children living and working on the streets, saying their achievements demonstrate what young people can accomplish when given a chance.
Speaker of Parliament Jacob Oboth-Oboth posing for a group photo with the Ghetto Kids at Parliament on August 20, 2026. (Courtesy: X/@Parliament_Ug)
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Parliament has recognised and celebrated Uganda’s Ghetto Kids for their international achievements, praising the young dancers for raising the country’s flag on some of the world’s biggest stages.
The Ghetto Kids were recognised following their performances at the FIFA World Cup, where they shared platforms with international stars and entertainers, giving Uganda visibility on the global stage despite the national football team not qualifying for the tournament.
In a statement read in the House, Speaker Jacob Oboth-Oboth commended the group for demonstrating that talent can emerge from even the most difficult backgrounds when young people are given an opportunity to showcase their abilities.
Oboth said the group’s journey was a powerful reminder that a person’s background should not determine their future.
“Their journey resonates with my journey personally. I am not a Ghetto Kid, but I too came from a very hard background. I know that where you start can never determine how far you can go,” Oboth said.
He described the dancers as an example of what Ugandan youth can achieve when talent is matched with opportunity, determination and perseverance.
“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 commended the Ghetto Kids for using their talent to promote Uganda internationally and urged them to continue carrying the national flag high.
The recognition comes as the Ghetto Kids continue to attract international attention through their energetic dance performances and appearances on global entertainment and social media platforms.
Although Uganda was not represented at the World Cup as a football nation, the group’s presence at the tournament offered the country a different form of representation, showcasing Ugandan talent and culture to an international audience.
Vice President Jessica Alupo during a plenary session at Parliament on August 20, 2026. (Courtesy: X/@Parliament_Ug)
Vice President Jessica Alupo also welcomed and congratulated the Ghetto Kids, describing their performance and achievements as exemplary.
“I welcome them (Ghetto Kids) and congratulate them for the exemplary performance and raising the Ugandan flag high. They have been an example to our children and, as Parliament, we pledge to give you support in your journey,” Alupo said.
She promised to liase with different officials to arrange a meeting between President Yoweri Museveni and the group.
The Leader of the Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi, also congratulated the Ghetto Kids, praising them for their achievements and for raising Uganda’s flag high.
“The late Nelson Mandela said it always seems impossible until it’s done. For me, that is always the driving force,” Ssenyonyi said.
He encouraged the dancers to remain focused and resilient despite the hurdles they face.
“The hurdles you go through, don’t give up. One day you will break through. We celebrate you,” he said.
MP Dr Sylvia Alinaitwe (Rukiga) while congratulating the dancers, said the country should recognise and appreciate Ugandans whose achievements continue to make the country shine.
“They are vibrant and have flown our flag high. It is important that we appreciate groups that make Uganda shine. Let’s not stop here, but even recognise Ugandans who have done tremendous work,” she said.
Christopher Kibazanga congratulated the youngsters and said their achievements should challenge government and society to pay greater attention to children living and working on the streets.
“I congratulate the children. Through their achievement, let the voice of street children be heard. They have challenged us,” Kibazanga said.
He said the sight of children receiving small handouts on the streets should prompt government to do more to provide them with opportunities and support.
“In the evening on the street, I see people giving them handouts of sh1,000. This teaches us that they should be given a chance and opportunity. Let’s do something and get them off the streets because, given an opportunity, they can achieve,” he said.