TAKEAWAYS

• Dauda Kavuma wants a dedicated rehabilitation centre for street children.
• The proposed facility would offer healthcare, education, skilling and correctional services.
• Kavuma says the internet helped The Ghetto Kids land opportunities such as performing with Shakira.

Dauda Kavuma, manager of the famous Ugandan dance group The Ghetto Kids, has revealed plans to push for the establishment of a rehabilitation centre for children living on the streets.

Kavuma spoke after the group returned from its maiden United States tour, where the dancers performed alongside Colombian pop star Shakira, including at the World Cup halftime show.

To celebrate their return, The Ghetto Kids hosted a party at their home in Nakawuka, bringing together children from disadvantaged backgrounds as part of an effort to inspire them and expose them to possibilities beyond street life.

Kavuma said he understands the struggles these children face because he also grew up in the ghetto and has seen many of the young people around him experience similar hardships.

“I came from the ghetto myself, and most of the children I am with came from the ghetto. I understand how brutal life can be out there.”

He explained that establishing the Ghetto Kids home was initially intended to give vulnerable children a better chance at life. However, he later realized that the number of children living on the streets was far greater than what his organization could accommodate.

He also noted that some children face rejection when they attempt to return to school because of their backgrounds.

Kavuma is now calling on government and other stakeholders to support the creation of a dedicated rehabilitation centre equipped with health facilities, schools, vocational training and correctional services to help children rebuild their lives.

“We need a rehabilitation centre where these children can receive education, skills and the support they need to become better people.”

Kavuma also revealed that The Ghetto Kids’ opportunity to perform with Shakira did not come through personal connections. He credited the internet for helping their work reach the international spotlight.

He urged young people to use digital platforms positively, saying good work can attract opportunities when it is properly showcased online.