Speaker Oboth Pledges to Back Ghetto Kids’ Shs13bn Skilling Centre Proposal

KAMPALA, UGANDA — August 20, 2026: Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Jacob Oboth-Oboth has pledged to personally present the Ghetto Kids’ Shs13 billion proposal for a rehabilitation and skilling centre to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, in a move aimed at supporting vulnerable youth through talent, education and skills development.

The Speaker made the commitment on Thursday when he hosted the internationally acclaimed Ugandan dance troupe in his chambers at Parliament following their recent performance alongside global music stars Shakira and Burna Boy at the World Cup.

The Ghetto Kids were led by founder Dauda Kavuma and Director of Projects and Corporate Communication Wisdom Enoch Ronnin.

Oboth-Oboth praised the group for its rise from humble beginnings to the international stage, saying their journey demonstrates that talent can emerge from even the most difficult circumstances.

“You have moved from the ghetto to the world stage. You have performed alongside global stars like Shakira and Burna Boy at the World Cup; that is an achievement to be proud of,” the Speaker said.

The Speaker said he could personally relate to the Ghetto Kids’ story, recalling that he once fetched water to raise money for school fees.

He urged the young performers not to be defined by their backgrounds, encouraging them to remain disciplined and committed to education.

“Never be ashamed of where you started. Your circumstances do not have to determine where you end up. You are now role models,” Oboth said.

Speaker Oboth Oboth meeting the Ghetto Kids in the Boardroom of the Speaker’s Chambers early this monring

Shs13 Billion Centre

According to the Ghetto Kids’ representatives, the proposed facility will be designed as a multi-purpose centre combining classrooms, professional workshops and production centres. The project is intended to provide opportunities for vulnerable young people to develop practical skills and pursue creative talents.

The Speaker also cautioned the performers to recognise the influence they now have over other young Ugandans.

“Stay humble. Stay disciplined. Value education. Work hard and never forget where you came from. You have achieved a lot already, but I believe this is only the beginning,” he told them.

Several MPs who attended the reception also expressed support for the proposal, with Gerald Karuhanga, Abdul Bisaso, Moses Koire and Dr. Sylvia Arinaitwe pledging cross-party backing for the proposed UGX 13 billion centre.

Karuhanga praised the Ghetto Kids for their achievements, saying their humble beginnings should not limit their ambitions.

The Speaker reaffirmed Parliament’s support for the group’s vision of using art and education to transform young lives.

As part of the reception, Oboth-Oboth also gave the Ghetto Kids a UGX 10 million token.