Shakira Pledges $1 Million to Rebuild Schools Damaged by Colombia Earthquake

Colombian pop star Shakira has pledged financial support to help rebuild schools damaged by the devastating earthquake that struck her home country.

The singer visited the hard-hit Chocó department on Colombia’s Pacific coast on Monday alongside US philanthropist Howard Buffett, one week after the 7.4-magnitude earthquake killed nearly 300 people.

Shakira said her Pies Descalzos Foundation has been working in the region for more than two decades, supporting education initiatives and the construction of schools for children and young people.

More than 2,800 schools across Colombia were damaged by the August 10 earthquake, with many of the affected institutions located in Chocó, a region largely home to Afro-Colombian and Indigenous communities.

During her visit to the departmental capital, Quibdó, Shakira expressed concern that schools could be overlooked once the immediate emergency response ends.

The singer said $1 million has already been pledged towards reconstruction efforts. The funding is expected to support repairs to damaged schools, the rebuilding of a technical institute and the construction of 10 new schools.

Known internationally for hits including Hips Don't Lie and Waka Waka, Shakira has long used her foundation to support education and opportunities for children in Colombia.