The US Treasury has confirmed details of Secretary Paul O'Neill's upcoming
trip to Africa, for part of which he will be accompanied by
Bono. The two met in early summer last year to discuss debt relief and the
current crises in Africa, during which time the idea of a joint trip was
suggested. The itinerary will feature visits to sites of interest concerning
the 'debt/aid and trade' debate. The trip is planned to include Ghana, South
Africa, Uganda and Ethiopia.
Bono's reason for going on the trip is to highlight how money generated
through debt cancellation, increased aid and fairer trade is used to fight
poverty and AIDS in Africa. He will be meeting with African leaders and
anti-corruption campaigners as well as visiting local communities and aid
projects with Paul O'Neill.
The trip comes a month before the leaders of the eight richest countries
(G8) meet in Canada to discuss what they can do to support Africa.