Shakira is stepping in to help rebuild schools in Colombia after a devastating earthquake caused major destruction in the Chocó region. The Colombian superstar made a surprise visit to Quibdó, the capital of Chocó, to see the damage firsthand and speak with families affected by the disaster.
The visit came after a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on August 10, leaving communities in crisis. According to reports, the earthquake caused major damage across the region, including the collapse of more than 40 schools and damage to hundreds of others. Thousands of homes were also destroyed, creating an urgent need for shelter, education support, and long-term rebuilding.
During her visit, Shakira toured damaged schools and met with local residents as they worked through the aftermath. The singer expressed concern that once the emergency response period ends, many schools could be left unrepaired. For Shakira, the issue goes beyond buildings — it is about making sure children in Chocó can return to classrooms, continue learning, and rebuild a sense of normal life after the disaster.
To help with recovery, Shakira pledged to support the construction of 10 schools in Chocó. The effort will be carried out through her Pies Descalzos Foundation, an organization she founded to help improve access to education for children in vulnerable communities. The project will also involve support from philanthropist Howard Buffett, who has worked on social infrastructure projects in Colombia.
The rebuilding effort is being backed by several major partners. Reports say Global Citizen and Live Nation each contributed $500,000, while CAF Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean pledged an additional $250,000. Together, the commitments bring the reported funding total to $1.25 million for education recovery in the region.
Shakira said there are no quick fixes for the pain caused by the disaster, but emphasized the importance of staying committed to Chocó beyond the immediate emergency. Her message focused on not abandoning the region once national attention fades, especially because Chocó has historically faced deep inequality and limited access to resources.
The earthquake’s impact has been severe. Colombian authorities reported hundreds of deaths and more than 26,000 destroyed dwellings, making the disaster one of the country’s most serious recent emergencies. The destruction of schools has added another layer of hardship for children and families already dealing with loss, displacement, and uncertainty.
Shakira’s involvement brings international attention to the crisis and highlights the need for long-term recovery. While emergency aid is important in the first days after a disaster, rebuilding schools can help restore stability for young people and give communities a path forward.
For Shakira, the pledge continues her long history of using her platform to support education. Through Pies Descalzos, she has helped fund schools and programs aimed at giving children better opportunities. Her latest commitment in Chocó shows that her focus remains on education as a tool for healing, dignity, and future growth.
As Chocó begins the difficult process of rebuilding, Shakira’s promise to help construct 10 schools could become a major step toward recovery. The project is not just about replacing damaged classrooms — it is about giving children the chance to return to school, dream again, and move forward after tragedy.