Shakira Commits to Rebuilding Schools in Colombia After Earthquake

In a recent announcement, Colombian singer Shakira pledged to assist in the reconstruction of at least 10 schools and a local university in the Chocó region following a severe earthquake. The earthquake, which occurred last week, resulted in hundreds of fatalities and disrupted thousands of educational facilities in western Colombia.

Surprise Visit and Commitment

Shakira, renowned for hits like “Hips Don’t Lie,” visited Quibdó, the capital of Chocó, where she interacted with students and assessed the damage. She emphasized the urgency of rebuilding schools, stating that lost educational time affects children’s futures. During her visit, Howard Buffett, son of Warren Buffett, joined her. His foundation will work with Shakira’s Fundación Pies Descalzos to reconstruct the affected schools.

When she calls, I come,” Buffett mentioned, highlighting their collaboration.

Pledges and Donations

Besides her efforts on the ground, Shakira secured significant financial contributions for the rebuilding initiative. These include $500,000 each from the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund and Live Nation, along with $250,000 from the CAF Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean.

Impact of the Earthquake

The earthquake, measuring 7.4 in magnitude and striking on August 10, devastated western Colombia. Official reports confirm at least 287 casualties and more than 26,000 homes destroyed. The Chocó region, where the earthquake’s epicenter was located, reported over 265 educational sites affected and approximately 3,100 homes obliterated.

Shakira expressed her deep affection for Chocó in a video. Her foundation has operated there for 22 years, running two schools from which many students have graduated. She vowed to assist in its rebuilding.

Challenges in Chocó

Efforts to assess the full extent of the damage face logistical challenges. Chocó, a region linked by rivers and unpaved roads, is akin to the size of Switzerland and has few roads connecting it to the rest of Colombia. Large portions of its inhabitants, primarily Indigenous and Afro-Colombian communities, live in poverty.

There is not a way to alleviate the pain of so many, there are no magic solutions,” Shakira stated, emphasizing her commitment to aiding Chocó’s recovery.

Shakira’s Ongoing Support

Shakira continues to advocate for educational opportunities. Her previous efforts include a $500,000 pledge to education recovery in Venezuela after earthquakes there. Her dedication is part of a broader movement, with various artists, including Marc Anthony and Karol G, contributing through charity events and matching donations.

Her recent pledge reflects a strong commitment to ensuring future generations in Colombia have access to education despite crises.