Shakira turns to Colombia after the earthquake and launches an ambitious plan to rebuild schools

Shakira has interrupted her break to return to Colombia and visit some of the areas most affected by the earthquake that has left serious damage in different regions of the country. The artist, visibly affected by the situation, has traveled to Chocó to learn firsthand about the consequences of the tragedy and meet with some of the affected children.

During her visit, the singer has focused especially on the situation of children and the need to restore their access to education as soon as possible. "Every day that children do not go to school is a day in which we pause their future," she said, defending the importance of rebuilding educational infrastructures damaged by the earthquake.

Through her Pies Descalzos Foundation, Shakira has announced that she will work with philanthropist Howard Graham Buffett to build ten new schools in Chocó. The artist has also personally committed to the reconstruction of the Technological University of Chocó, as part of a plan that seeks to restore educational normalcy as soon as possible to one of the most affected areas.

The singer has also confirmed new financial contributions to address the emergency. The Citizen Global movement and the promoter Live Nation will each donate 500,000 dollars to Colombia, contributions promoted by Shakira herself. "What worries me most is that after the state of emergency passes, so many people will be forgotten and affected," she explained during her visit.

A visit on the ground

Shakira knows the reality of Chocó well thanks to the work carried out for years by her foundation. The organization has promoted different educational projects there and more than 400 children from the region have graduated, some of them subsequently continuing their university studies.

During her tour, the artist was accompanied by Howard Graham Buffett and visited several of the affected areas of Quibdó, as well as the Carrasquilla Industrial Technological School. There she was able to meet children who have lost their homes and some of their belongings as a result of the earthquake, starring in emotional moments with the minors.

The visit comes as Shakira enjoys a break from her world tour, which she will resume in September. The artist had already reacted to the earthquake through her social media, where she conveyed her support to the affected families and claimed the ability of Colombians to remain united in the face of adversity. "Dear Colombia, my heart is with all those who felt this earthquake today and with the families who are going through moments of anguish," the singer expressed then. Now, she has wanted to go a step further and turn that message of support into concrete actions on the ground.