Latest News

Chocó is still moving more than a month after Colombia’s 7.4 earthquake

By The City Paper Staff - September 15, 2026

A seismic swarm around Sipí and Istmina in the middle San Juan region of Chocó continues to produce tremors across the department as President De La Espriella visits to oversee reconstruction. The earth beneath Chocó has continued to move more than a month after a magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck Colombia’s Pacific litoral, with a series […]

Shakira Pledges US$1.25 M to Rebuild Earthquake-Damaged Schools in Chocó

By Richard Emblin - August 19, 2026

Colombia’s Shakira has pledged US$1.25 million toward rebuilding schools and educational infrastructure damaged by the earthquake that struck Colombia’s Pacific region on August 10, announcing a major recovery initiative during a visit to Chocó on Monday. The award-winning singer and pop superstar arrived in Quibdó accompanied by American philanthropist Howard Graham Buffett, representatives of CAF, […]

UNGRD Decision Not to Request Foreign Rescuers Sparks Controversy

By The City Paper Staff - August 14, 2026

Amidst the rubble and destruction caused by Monday’s devastating 7.4-magnitude earthquake across much as Central and Southwest Colombia, reports are surfacing that the leftist government of ex-President Gustavo Petro initially decided that the country did not need specialized international search-and-rescue teams. According to a letter signed by Javier Pava, the former head of the National […]

Colombia Quake Toll Rises to 181 as Rescue Crews Search for Survivors Under Rubble

By The City Paper Staff - August 11, 2026

The death toll from Colombia’s powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake rose to 181 on Tuesday, with over 1300 injured and estimated 200 missing as rescue crews continued searching collapsed buildings across the country’s western and central regions. Authorities warned that the death toll is likely to rise as emergency teams work through the rubble of damaged and […]

Coral Coves to Desert Shores: Colombia’s Most Unique Beaches

By Jacqueline de Klerk - October 18, 2025

There are countless stretches of beach in Colombia to explore, each with their own beauty and natural charm. Here four options fora carefree destination.

Colombia’s Justice Minister sounds alarm over child suicides linked to forced recruitment

By The City Paper Staff - February 17, 2025

Colombia’s Justice Minister Ángela María Buitrago warned of rising child suicides linked to forced recruitment by armed groups. Cases surged over 1,000% in four years, particularly in rural areas like Chocó, highlighting the government’s struggle to protect vulnerable youth.

In Colombia’s Chocó, ELN landmines trap communities in fear

By Richard Emblin - February 12, 2025

Landmines planted by the ELN guerrilla across Colombia’s Chocó have trapped communities in fear, preventing farming and medical evacuations. Governor Nubia Córdova urges government action as violence displaces thousands. Troop deployments fall short, highlighting the need for demining and social investment.

Defence Minister resigns as ELN violence engulfs Colombia’s Chocó

By The City Paper Staff - February 11, 2025

Colombia faces escalating violence as ELN guerrillas and the Clan del Golfo battle for control in Chocó, displacing thousands and confining over 50,000 residents. Defense Minister Iván Velásquez resigns amid worsening security, leaving vulnerable communities at the mercy of illegal armed groups.

Quibdó: At the Heart of Chocó’s Cultural and Natural Heritage

By Richard Emblin - November 16, 2024

Nestled along the majestic Atrato River, Quibdó is a vibrant city where Afro-Colombian culture, lush rainforests, and colonial history converge. The city’s malecón offers breathtaking views of the river, bustling with traditional canoes and local vendors

Colombia declares State of Emergency amid torrential rains and extreme weather

By The City Paper Staff - November 12, 2024

President Petro has declared a state of emergency across Colombia following relentless rainfall in the Pacific and Andean regions. Widespread flooding and landslides have displacement more than 90,000 people.

Río Atrato: A watery lifeline at the heart of Colombia’s Pacific

By Richard Emblin - November 11, 2024

The Atrato River, flowing over 500 kilometers from the Farallones de Citará in Antioquia to the Gulf of Urabá, serves as a crucial waterway for Colombia’s Chocó department. As it passes through Quibdó, te departmental capital, the river becomes a bustling hub for commerce, connecting remote Afro-Colombian and Indigenous communities.