Ghetto Kids’ World Cup performance puts Uganda in global tourism spotlight – UTB

What the report says

The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) says the Ghetto Kids’ high-profile appearance at the FIFA World Cup final has given Uganda an important boost in international tourism promotion. According to Nile Post, the dance group’s performance alongside Colombian singer Shakira drew global attention and was presented by UTB as a chance to highlight Uganda’s youth talent, creativity and cultural identity to a wide audience.

UTB chief executive Juliana Kagwa said the board had worked with the group and its management for several months before the event to support destination marketing efforts. The collaboration included creating promotional content at locations such as Murchison Falls National Park and the Source of the Nile, with the aim of showing Uganda as a vibrant travel destination. Kagwa said the team’s visibility offered a way to present the country beyond wildlife-focused tourism.

The article also notes that the Ghetto Kids received a heroes’ welcome at Entebbe International Airport after the World Cup appearance. UTB described the group as powerful ambassadors and said it is increasingly using local and international influencers, digital creators and entertainers to support tourism campaigns.

The development matters because Uganda is preparing to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which UTB sees as a major chance to strengthen the country’s profile and attract more visitors. As background, tourism boards in many countries use sports and entertainment partnerships to reach younger audiences and promote destinations through social media and global events.