SES and Shakira launch relief efforts for earthquake-hit Colombia

Following a major earthquake in Colombia, humanitarian efforts are mobilizing to provide communications and infrastructure support. The Luxembourg-based satellite operator SES has approved a proposal to provide humanitarian aid to the Colombian government and earthquake victims. The company aims to deploy its satellite fleet to establish broadband internet hotspots, which would allow first responders and victims to communicate in areas where fiber optic cables and telecommunications towers have been destroyed.

In addition to technological support, singer Shakira has returned to her native Colombia to assist those affected. She has pledged to build ten new learning centers in the region to replace schools that were destroyed during the seismic event.