Colombian singer Shakira has pledged $1.25 million to aid in the rebuilding of schools in Chocó, Colombia, following the devastating impact of a 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck the region on August 10, 2026. During her visit to Quibdó, the capital of Chocó, on August 17, she made this significant commitment alongside organisations such as Global Citizen, Live Nation, and the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF).
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The funding initiative comprises half a million dollars from the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, a matching contribution of $500,000 from Live Nation, and an additional $250,000 from CAF. Shakira emphasised the importance of schools for children in the wake of disasters, stating, “Schools are more than buildings. They give children the stability and routine they need most after a disaster.”
In her impassioned address during the visit, the 49-year-old artist expressed her admiration for the resilience displayed by the people in her home country amidst the chaos. She remarked, “These past few days, I’ve watched my country suffer, but I’ve also watched people come together with the resilience and solidarity that has always defined us.”
Shakira is not only advocating for school reconstruction but has also taken a personal interest in the redevelopment of Universidad Tecnológica del Chocó Diego Luis Córdoba. This institution is vital for many of the graduates of her foundation, Pies Descalzos, who pursue their higher education there. “Rebuilding it means protecting the path those young people have already begun,” she said.
Accompanying Shakira during her visit was businessman Howard Buffett, who announced that The Howard G. Buffett Foundation would back the initiative further by supporting the reconstruction of ten additional schools in Quibdó and surrounding rural areas. His involvement underscores the collective effort being made to address the educational needs of the region’s children following such a catastrophic event.
Shakira has also called for assistance from international governments, including those of the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, and Japan, urging them to join efforts in providing support for affected communities. Following the earthquake, reports indicated that 40 schools completely collapsed and many more were damaged, alongside significant loss of life, with at least 250 fatalities reported.
The singer’s statements have resonated with many, especially her heartfelt message to parents who lost children in the earthquake. “To the parents who lost their children, words are not enough. All I can offer is my heart, and the promise that their pain will never be forgotten,” Shakira said.
This initiative is not Shakira’s first foray into disaster recovery. Earlier in June, following a separate earthquake in Venezuela, she announced a commitment of $500,000 from the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund to support educational recovery in that region as well.
Shakira remains a prominent figure in advocating for educational initiatives, demonstrated by her engagement in high-profile events such as her performance at the first-ever FIFA World Cup final halftime show in July, reflecting her ongoing commitment to using her platform for significant causes.
As Chocó embarks on the road to recovery from this catastrophic earthquake, the collaborative efforts led by Shakira, along with support from philanthropic organisations and international governments, hold promise for the restoration of vital educational infrastructure. The singer’s unwavering dedication to rebuilding schools and universities will be essential in providing stability and hope for the children and families affected by this tragedy.