August 18, 2026 – Radio 854 Music News:

Shakira pledges $1.25 million to help rebuild schools after Colombia earthquake

Shakira is stepping up to help children affected by the devastating earthquake that struck her native Colombia, pledging $1.25 million toward rebuilding schools in the hard-hit Chocó region.

The Colombian superstar made the announcement during a surprise visit to Quibdó, the capital of Chocó, where she toured damaged schools and met students. The 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck western Colombia on August 10 killed hundreds of people and damaged thousands of homes, while more than 265 educational sites in Chocó have been affected.

Education is the priority

Shakira’s Pies Descalzos (Barefoot) Foundation will work with philanthropist Howard G. Buffett’s foundation to help rebuild at least 10 schools in the region. Shakira has also committed her personal efforts to help restore the Technological University of Chocó.

The $1.25 million in announced support comes from several partners: $500,000 from the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, $500,000 from Live Nation and $250,000 from CAF Development Bank. The funds will support the rebuilding of schools and help children return to classrooms as quickly as possible.

“Every day that children don’t go to school”

During her visit, Shakira stressed the importance of restoring education alongside the wider earthquake recovery.

The singer’s foundation has worked in Chocó for more than two decades, making the region particularly close to her heart. She said she wants to ensure that children are not forgotten once the immediate emergency has passed.

For Shakira, the initiative is another example of her long-standing commitment to education. Through Pies Descalzos, she has spent years supporting access to education for children and young people across Colombia.

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