Global music icon Shakira has posted a moving tribute to the Ghetto Kids from Uganda. The message followed their collaborative performance at the 2026 World Cup. The singer took to Instagram to express her gratitude and affection for the young dancers.

A Performance to Remember

The 2026 World Cup has been a historic event. It was the first tournament to feature 48 teams across North America. Amidst the sporting drama, the Ghetto Kids emerged as a standout cultural highlight.

The group consists of children from the streets of Kampala. They have risen to international fame through their viral dance routines. After sharing the global stage with Shakira, the group spent several personal days with the Colombian star.

Shakira and Uganda's Ghetto Kids // Instagram
First Trip to the Beach

Shakira revealed that she spent significanttime with the group outside of rehearsals. She shared that she took the children to the coast for a landmark experience.

“These past few days have been filled with inexplicable love. I took you to the beach for the first time in your lives,” she posted.

The singer noted that the group spent every day with her family and friends. She described the impact the children had on everyone they encountered during the trip.

“We spent time together every day along with family and friends while we were all in awe watching how you transform every place they go to and touch every person you meet.”

Lessons in Love and Unity

The singer was clearly moved by the emotional intelligence of the young performers. She reflected on how difficult it was to part ways with the group after their time together.

"It was too hard to say good bye to you because you know how to give and receive love in a way that I have never seen before."

Shakira and Uganda's Ghetto Kids // Instagram
Shakira suggested that the children provided a lesson for the rest of the world. She spoke about the importance of being vulnerable and open-hearted.

"You proved to us that we can love each other no matter where we come from, regardless of what we have or lack."

A Universal Responsibility

Shakira’s message extended beyond a simple thank you. She used the platform to advocate for the welfare of all children globally. She stated that cultural and linguistic barriers should not prevent people from caring for one another.

"And though you are from another continent, live in a different culture, and speak another language, now I love you like you are children of my own."

She emphasized that society has a collective duty to look after the younger generation.

"Children come to this world through their mothers and fathers, but they are all of our responsibility and belong to all of us."

Gratitude to the Group

The Ghetto Kids, also known as the Triplets Ghetto Kids, were founded by Daouda Kavuma. The group aims to use music and dance to help children find better lives. They have previously reached the finals of Britain’s Got Talent and have millions of followers on social media.

Shakira and Uganda's Ghetto Kids // Instagram
In her closing remarks, Shakira named the individual members of the group: Ivan, Ricky, Joseph, Brighton, Kesha, Jojo, Ciara, and Ketra.

"Thank you for being exactly who you are and teaching us the most valuable lessons about life and our purpose in it."