Shakira vowed on Monday to help rebuild at least 10 schools in a remote Colombian region affected by a devastating earthquake. The star, known for hits like “Hips Don’t Lie,” made this promise during a surprise visit to Quibdó, the capital of Colombia’s Chocó province. She toured damaged schools and interacted with students.
The earthquake, measuring 7.4 in magnitude, struck western Colombia on August 10, leading to significant loss of life and property. Authorities reported at least 287 deaths and the destruction of more than 26,000 homes. The government also stated that 194 people are missing, but other sources suggest the number is as high as 4,100. The quake’s epicenter was in Chocó, a region with significant poverty levels.
Shakira expressed concern over the long-term impacts if the damaged schools remain unrepaired. She emphasized the importance of education for the region’s children, noting that many have no alternative way to learn due to lack of connectivity.
Accompanying Shakira was Howard Buffett, son of philanthropist Warren Buffett, who has collaborated with her on educational initiatives in the Chocó. His foundation will team up with Shakira’s Pies Descalzos Foundation on this project. Additionally, Global Citizen and Live Nation have pledged $500,000 each for the cause.
Chocó, an area as large as Switzerland, suffers from poor infrastructure and communication challenges, making it difficult for aid groups to assess damage. Most of its 600,000 residents live in poverty without proper connectivity. The region is mostly inhabited by indigenous and Afro-Colombian communities.
During her visit to a Quibdó high school, Shakira expressed her determination to assist those who lost homes and schools. “There are no magic solutions, but there’s a concrete commitment to help these Colombians recover,” Shakira said, emphasizing education.
Known for her advocacy in education, Shakira plans to devote her efforts to rebuilding a local technological university in Chocó. Her ongoing efforts reflect her long-standing dedication to educational causes.
Recently, after earthquakes hit Venezuela, Shakira announced a $500,000 contribution from FIFA’s Global Citizen Education Fund for educational recovery there. Other notable figures, including Marc Anthony, Chayanne, and Karol G, have also pledged support for Colombia and Venezuela through various initiatives.
Organizations like the Federación Colombiana de Fútbol and the Confederación Sudamericana de Fútbol have pledged $1 million to the recovery fund led by Colombia’s First Lady.