Colombia earthquake: CAFOD launches response

Source: CAFOD

A national disaster has been declared in Colombia following the 7.4 magnitude earthquake. More than 160 people have died, with rescue operations underway to prevent further loss of life. The epicentre was in San José Del Palmar, in the Choco region, which is one of the poorest and most affected by natural catastrophes. It is also impacted by the ongoing armed conflict.

The true scale of the tragedy is still emerging, particularly in remote rural areas where indigenous communities live. Attempts at delivering aid are being hampered by damaged roads and broken communications.

Diana Trimino, CAFOD Head of Programmes for Latin America, said: "This is a devastating moment for Colombia, and our deepest condolences are with everyone who has lost a loved one. Behind every number is a family, a home and a life changed forever.

"CAFOD has made a £50,000 donation to support the initial humanitarian response. We, alongside our church partners, will provide emergency shelter for those displaced and evacuated, and basics such as clean water and food.

"We stand with affected communities today and will continue to support them as they begin the long road to recovery. This is likely to be more challenging as communities also prepare for the expected impacts of El Niño later this year."

The Colombian Bishops' Conference has also expressed solidarity: "This painful moment reminds us that no one can face an emergency of this magnitude alone… We are called to recognise ourselves as one family and respond to the suffering of our brothers and sisters with generosity, responsibility and solidarity. Every act of help, every lending hand, every shared effort is a concrete sign of fraternity and hope."

To donate to our emergency response please go to: Donate to Emergencies

For more information on our work in Colombia please visit: https://cafod.org.uk/about-us/where-we-work/latin-america-and-the-caribbean/colombia