Bono says Africa can learn from Ireland on poverty

0 Comments | AFP, May, 2008

YOKOHAMA, Japan (AFP) — Irish pop star Bono urged African leaders Thursday to take inspiration from his homeland as they seek to tackle poverty and the food crisis.

The U2 frontman turned activist addressed a development summit in Yokohama, Japan, attended by 40 African heads of state where there were calls for urgent action to address spiralling food prices.

"What on earth might I have to offer? Well, the first thing is I'm Irish," Bono, wearing his trademark glasses, he joked as he took the podium in front of Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda.

"We came out of colonisation, we had to deal with the British, we have a lot in common with Africa," he added to laughter and applause.

He said that while Ireland now enjoys some of the world's highest...