Shakira Arrives in Colombia’s Choco to Help Earthquake Victims

Shakira stepped into Colombia's Choco region with American philanthropist Howard Buffett to aid earthquake victims. She visited Quibdo, the capital of Choco, one week after a devastating earthquake struck the area. Shakira aimed to witness firsthand the suffering of families and see the places affected by the emergency. Accompanied by Buffett, she started her journey at the Carrasquilla Industrial Technological School, an important educational institution, where she was greeted by children and local officials, including Choco Governor Nubia Carolina Cordoba.

Shakira also toured educational facilities damaged by the earthquake and conversed with local residents. Choco continues to grapple with the aftermath of an emergency that has heavily impacted the area, which has historically struggled with poverty and infrastructure issues. At least 13 lives were lost, thousands were affected, and around 1,300 homes were damaged.

Buffett, a long-time supporter of Colombia, joined the singer with a humanitarian aid and reconstruction mission. The two have a history dating back to 2008 when Buffett supported social and infrastructure projects via the Pies Descalzos Foundation. Shakira expressed her commitment to continue supporting the affected communities, acknowledging that there are no easy solutions to the pain caused by such a tragedy.

She vowed to stay in Choco, emphasizing the department's deep connections to education and social work through her Pies Descalzos Foundation. During her visit, Shakira announced that she had raised $1 million to rebuild schools, with Live Nation contributing an additional $500,000. Her visit to Choco aimed to bring attention to the region's dire needs and provide crucial resources for rebuilding homes, schools, and essential infrastructure.