Shakira's other promise after earthquake in Colombia: Rebuilding a university and 10 schools

Colombian singer Shakira visited Quibdó, the capital of the Chocó department, to witness firsthand the devastation caused by the recent 7.4 magnitude earthquake.

Accompanied by philanthropist Howard Graham Buffett, Shakira toured affected areas, speaking with local authorities and residents. Images from the visit showed the singer walking with children and observing the damage, as well as meeting with officials to understand the impact of the disaster. The earthquake, which occurred on August 10, has resulted in 289 deaths, 4,187 injuries, and 143 disappearances, with Chocó being one of the most severely impacted regions, suffering structural damage in over 90% of its territory.

Beyond assessing the damage, Shakira made a significant commitment: she will personally lead the efforts to rebuild the Technological University of Chocó, an institution heavily damaged by the seismic event. Furthermore, in collaboration with Howard Buffett and his Fundación Pies Descalzos (Barefoot Foundation), she will spearhead the construction of 10 new schools in the department. "Every day that children do not go to school is a day we pause their future," Shakira stated, emphasizing the critical importance of restoring educational spaces. She announced a $1 million fund dedicated to rebuilding damaged schools, with Global Citizen contributing $500,000 and Live Nation, her tour promoter, adding another $500,000. Shakira also appealed to the governments of Canada, Japan, and the United Kingdom to join these reconstruction efforts.

“

Every day that children do not go to school is a day we pause their future.