Shakira pledges support for earthquake-damaged schools in Colombia

Colombian singer Shakira visited the Chocó region on August 17, 2026, to announce humanitarian support for rebuilding schools following a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck the country on August 10. The earthquake, which resulted in nearly 300 deaths, caused significant damage to more than 2,800 schools across Colombia, with particularly severe impacts in the Chocó region, an area largely inhabited by indigenous and Afro-Colombian communities.

Accompanied by American philanthropist Howard Buffett, the singer emphasized that her Pies Descalzos Foundation has been active in the region for over 20 years, focusing on educational infrastructure and youth programs. Shakira expressed deep concern that once the state of emergency ends, the reconstruction of these vital school facilities might be neglected, leaving many children without access to education. Her initiative aims to ensure the long-term restoration of these schools to allow students to return to their classrooms. She urged continued attention to the region to prevent the local population from being forgotten as the initial crisis response concludes.