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.