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The press in Colombia reports that Shakira’s visit to Barranquilla has to do with a double family celebration - her brother Tonino’s 58th and nephew Shafik’s 24th birthday. Tonino Mebarak is known in the entertainment world as Shakira’s ‘shadow’ since he is the current road manager and her family support.
The singer’s trip to her hometown in mid-October continues to be a topic of interest for the press that follows the movements of the 46-year-old artist, especially after her move to Miami last April. The international music sensation arrived in Barranquilla on Friday, October 13, 2023, during a low-key visit. She was spotted leaving her parents’ house, accompanied by her two children, Milan and Sasha.
At first it was speculated that it was an emergency trip for her mother’s health. Then it was said it was her father’s health that could be the reason for the trip. Last year, Mr. Mebarak was hospitalized twice after a severe fall that injured his hip and other body parts. This incident was a wake-up call for Shakira and her family, who rallied around her father during his recovery process.
The health condition of Shakira’s father played a pivotal role in the singer’s life choices. It was one of the key factors that led her to postpone her planned move to Miami earlier in the year. The bond between Shakira and her family has always been strong, and she would not let a single challenge or hurdle keep her from being by her father’s side during his times of need.
Shakira’s love and concern for her father were further highlighted in April when she left her home in Barcelona, Spain. During her father’s journey from Spain to Colombia, he was accompanied by a team of healthcare professionals who closely monitored his health throughout the trip.