Juanes launches campaign with artists and athletes to repair areas affected by earthquake

Colombian singer Juanes, through his Mi Sangre Foundation, has initiated a major fundraising campaign called 'Marea Viva, por el Chocó de mañana' (Living Tide, for the Chocó of tomorrow). The initiative aims to collect 15 billion pesos (approximately $5 million) to aid in the reconstruction of homes devastated by the powerful earthquake that struck Colombia on August 10.

The campaign brings together a diverse group of prominent figures from the arts and sports, including musicians Manuel Medrano, Goyo, Juan Luis Guerra, Alejandro Sanz, Nicky Jam, and Altafulla. Football stars James Rodríguez, David Ospina, and Jhon Arias, along with national team coach Néstor Lorenzo, are also involved. Athletes Rigoberto Urán and Mariana Pajón, and writer Velia Vidal have lent their support as well. Major companies like Fundación Bancolombia and Grupo Argos have pledged significant contributions, including 1,000 homes for displaced families.

Organizers announced that 10 billion pesos (about $3 million) have already been committed by participating organizations and celebrities. They aim to mobilize an additional 15 billion pesos to support the medium and long-term reconstruction efforts in the Chocó department, one of the most severely affected regions. The call to action urges Colombians who have celebrated the international achievements of these artists and athletes to contribute to rebuilding efforts.

The earthquake, measuring 7.4 magnitude, had its epicenter in San José del Palmar, Chocó. The disaster has resulted in 331 deaths, 4,439 injuries, 240 disappearances, and 364 rescues, according to the latest figures. It impacted 494 municipalities across 16 departments, damaging or destroying tens of thousands of homes and numerous buildings. Chocó, a region already facing poverty and infrastructure challenges, saw 29 of its 31 municipalities affected, highlighting the urgent need for sustained reconstruction support.

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Today we present 'Marea Viva,' a strategy that focuses on the 'Chocó of tomorrow,' on what will happen three months after the earthquake, on being there when the emergency tide recedes and when the territory needs us most.