Shakira Pledges $1.25 Million to Rebuild Schools in Colombia

Shakira has announced a commitment of $1.25 million to assist in rebuilding schools that were damaged by a recent earthquake in Colombia. This initiative, formed in collaboration with the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, Live Nation, and CAF, aims to restore education for the affected children in the region.

The news comes shortly after an earthquake struck Colombia last week, causing significant destruction, particularly in the Chocó region where 40 schools were completely destroyed and over 3,200 others affected across the nation. Shakira, alongside philanthropist Howard Buffett and representatives from CAF, visited Quibdó to engage with local officials.

During her visit, Shakira held discussions with Nubia Carolina Córdoba, Governor of Chocó, and Rafael Bolaños, the Mayor of Quibdó. Following these conversations, a $1.25 million commitment was revealed, which includes $500,000 from the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, a matching amount from Live Nation, and an additional $250,000 from CAF.

The initiative will be implemented in coordination with Fundación Pies Descalzos, which has focused on educational efforts in Chocó for over two decades. Shakira urged international governments, including those of the UK, Ireland, Canada, and Japan, to join this fundraising effort.

In her statement, Shakira expressed her heartbreak over the disaster but also commended the unity and resilience of the Colombian people. “Schools are more than buildings. They give children the stability and routine they need most after a disaster. That’s why we’re making an initial $1.25 million commitment to help rebuild schools and get children back into their classrooms. Chocó is not alone. Colombia is not alone. And we will keep going,” she said.

Moreover, Shakira expressed her personal dedication to the reconstruction of the Universidad Tecnológica del Chocó Diego Luis Córdoba, which also suffered damage from the earthquake. This institution plays a crucial role for many graduates of Fundación Pies Descalzos as it serves as a stepping stone for their higher education.

Hugh Evans, Co-Founder and CEO of Global Citizen, stated, “When disaster strikes, getting children safely back into classrooms is essential to helping communities recover. Shakira and Fundación Pies Descalzos have spent decades supporting children in Colombia, and we’re proud that the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund can stand alongside them and the people of Chocó at this moment. This is an initial commitment, and we hope it will encourage others to join the recovery effort.”

Sergio Díaz Granados, executive president of CAF, reaffirmed CAF’s commitment to the Chocó region, emphasizing the importance of education in recovery and sustainable development. “At CAF, we will continue mobilizing resources so that the children of Colombia can safely return to their classrooms,” he remarked.