WASHINGTON, September 24, 2026 – The World Bank Group has approved US$200 million in additional financing to help Colombia respond to and recover from the earthquake that struck the country on August 10.
The financing complements the Development Policy Loan with a Catastrophe Deferred Drawdown Option (Cat DDO) for Disaster Risk Management, approved in February 2025 and already fully disbursed. It expands budget support to help the Government assist affected communities and respond rapidly and effectively to large-scale adverse events.
- This additional financing from the World Bank demonstrates confidence in Colombia and in the Government’s ability to respond responsibly during difficult times. We appreciate this support, which will provide additional resources to assist communities affected by the earthquake.Miguel Gómez MartínezColombia’s Minister of Finance and Public Credit
The operation will provide rapid budget support to address reconstruction needs following the earthquake while continuing to strengthen Colombia’s disaster risk management and disaster risk financing frameworks.
- The operation strengthens Colombia’s financial capacity to respond to disasters. It will help ensure that resources reach affected communities quickly and that institutions have the tools needed to support recovery effortsWorld Bank Group Representative in ColombiaJuan Martínez Álvarez
The Catastrophe Deferred Drawdown Option (Cat DDO) is a contingent line of credit that provides immediate liquidity following a natural disaster or public health emergency, helping governments finance urgent response and recovery needs. The instrument is a key component of the World Bank Group’s approach to strengthening resilience and disaster preparedness.
World Bank Group Cat DDO operations have supported Colombia’s rapid response to previous crises, including those associated with the La Niña phenomenon and the COVID-19 pandemic, helping the country respond effectively during times of emergency.
Through this operation, the World Bank Group and Colombia continue a long-standing partnership aimed at protecting vulnerable populations and reducing the economic and social impacts of future disasters and emergencies.
