Overview
- Shakira made a surprise visit to Quibdó and announced an initial $1.25 million package that will be routed through her Fundación Pies Descalzos to repair and rebuild school infrastructure.
- The $1.25 million combines $500,000 from Shakira and Live Nation, $500,000 from the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, and $250,000 from CAF, the Latin American development bank.
- Philanthropist Howard G. Buffett accompanied Shakira and said his foundation will separately support the construction of at least 10 additional schools in Chocó.
- The announcement follows the Aug. 10, 7.4‑magnitude earthquake that authorities say killed hundreds and damaged roughly 200 schools in Chocó, a poor and isolated department with difficult road and river access that complicates relief and rebuilding.
- Organizers and Shakira framed the funding as an initial, catalytic step and urged sustained public and private contributions because full reconstruction of schools and the local technological university will require far more resources and long‑term coordination.