Shakira Says She Loves Uganda’s Ghetto Kids “Like They Are Children of My Own”

Shakira Opens Her Heart to Uganda’s Ghetto Kids After Emotional Trip Together

Global superstar Shakira has expressed profound affection for Uganda’s Triplets Ghetto Kids following days spent together in the United States, revealing that the young performers have touched her life in ways she never expected. The Colombian icon described the experience as one filled with “inexplicable love,” sharing that saying goodbye to the Kampala-based dance troupe proved difficult after witnessing their extraordinary capacity to both give and receive love.

During their time together, Shakira took the young dancers to the beach for what she described as their first-ever ocean experience, spending quality time with them daily alongside her family and friends. The connection clearly ran deep—deep enough for the superstar to use the moment as a platform for advocacy. In a heartfelt social media message, she challenged governments, business leaders, and professionals worldwide to prioritize investment in children, questioning why kids around the globe don’t receive equal opportunities to unlock their potential. The Ghetto Kids, she explained, exemplify the immense talent waiting to be discovered among forgotten youth everywhere.

The bond between Shakira and the Ugandan performers was forged on one of music’s biggest stages—the 2026 FIFA World Cup final halftime show in New Jersey. There, the dance group joined Shakira and Burna Boy for a live performance of “Dai Dai,” the official tournament anthem that brought together Latin and Afrobeats sounds. Following their electrifying performance and the cherished days spent together in New York, the Ghetto Kids have reportedly returned home to Uganda, carrying with them memories—and perhaps life-changing connections—from their American journey.

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