UNICEF support children and families affected by the earthquake in Chocó and Buenaventura, Colombia

NEW YORK (August 11, 2026) - Following the 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck western Colombia, UNICEF is scaling up its response to support affected children and families in the department of Chocó and the city of Buenaventura (on the Pacific coast). Thousands of people, including children, have been affected, with Chocó, the department closest to the epicenter of the disaster, among the most vulnerable of the affected areas.  

According to official figures, the earthquake has caused 181 deaths, 195 missing and more than 2,595 injuries. While the total number of children impacted is still being assessed, authorities estimate that 796 schools have been affected, raising concerns about disruptions to learning and access to safe spaces for children. 

“Children have seen their homes and schools damaged and are facing growing risks as essential services remain disrupted in the hardest-hit communities,” said, UNICEF Colombia Country Representative, Tanya Chapuisat said. “UNICEF is mobilizing an early response in Chocó and Buenaventura in water, sanitation and hygiene to help reduce public health risks and protect the dignity of affected families while essential services are being restored and assessments continue." 

Damage to critical infrastructure has disrupted access to water, electricity, education, healthcare and telecommunications, while connectivity challenges and the geographical dispersion of communities continue to hamper needs assessments. 

UNICEF is providing water, sanitation and hygiene supplies for 22,000 people in Chocó and Buenaventura, including family WASH kits, maternal care kits, menstrual hygiene kits and water storage tanks. UNICEF is also working with the Colombian Family Welfare Institute (ICBF) to strengthen child protection prevention and response measures for children affected by the earthquake.  

With more than two decades of presence in Choco, and continued presence in Buenaventura, UNICEF is coordinating its response with national and local authorities and partners. UNICEF stands ready to scale up its response to help ensure children and their families have access to life-saving support and protection. 

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UNICEF USA advances the global mission of UNICEF by rallying the American public to support the world’s most vulnerable children. Together, we are working toward a world that upholds the rights of all children and helps every child thrive. For more information, visit www.unicefusa.org. 

For more information please contact:
Nina Marie Costa, UNICEF USA, 973-519-5253, NMCosta@unicefusa.org