Uganda’s Ghetto Kids have received recognition in Parliament following their appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Speaker of Parliament Jacob Oboth-Oboth praising the young dancers for putting Uganda in the global spotlight.
Although Uganda did not qualify for the tournament, the Ghetto Kids became an unexpected source of national representation after performing at the World Cup ceremony and sharing platforms with international stars and entertainers.
In a statement delivered in Parliament, Oboth described the group’s achievement as a remarkable accomplishment, saying they had secured a stage that gave Uganda visibility far beyond the country’s footballing representation.
“Even when Uganda didn’t participate in the World Cup, the Ghetto Kids enjoyed a better stage than any East African country or even within Africa,” Oboth said.
He congratulated the group for making Uganda proud and urged them to continue using their talent to represent the country internationally.
Oboth also drew a personal connection to the Ghetto Kids’ story, saying their rise from difficult circumstances reflected his own journey.
“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,” he said.
For the Speaker, the dancers’ success demonstrates what can happen when young people are given an opportunity to develop and showcase their abilities.
“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.
Oboth encouraged the group to continue flying the national flag high, adding, “When our young people shine, Uganda shines.”
The recognition was also welcomed by Vice President Jessica Alupo, who congratulated the Ghetto Kids for their performance and international achievements.
“I welcome them 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.
Alupo also said she would liaise with relevant officials to facilitate a meeting between the Ghetto Kids and President Yoweri Museveni.
The Leader of the Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi, joined the tributes, congratulating the dancers for showcasing Ugandan talent on an international stage.
Ssenyonyi encouraged the youngsters not to allow challenges to discourage them, drawing inspiration from former South African President Nelson Mandela.
“The late Nelson Mandela said it always seems impossible until it’s done. For me, that is always the driving force,” he said.
The parliamentary recognition comes as the Ghetto Kids continue to build an international profile through their energetic performances and appearances on major entertainment and social media platforms.
Their World Cup appearance offered Uganda a different form of representation at a global sporting event, demonstrating that even when the national football team is absent, Ugandan talent can still find a way onto the world’s biggest stages.
In his communication, Speaker @ObothOboth has paid tribute to the Ghetto Kids, a Ugandan dance crew for their remarkable participation in the 2026 World Cup ceremony.
“Even when Uganda didn’t participate in the World Cup, the Ghetto Kids enjoyed a better stage than any East… pic.twitter.com/oEK0CaKX4i
— Parliament of Uganda (@Parliament_Ug) August 20, 2026
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