News and events

Bono praises Zuma on Aids

Francis Hweshe

18 February 2011

Irish rock star Bono, in South Africa as part of U2's 360° worldwide tour, has praised President Jacob Zuma for his role in the country's fight against HIV/Aids.

Bono and Zuma held a private meeting at the President's official residence in Cape Town on Thursday morning. They briefly addressed journalists and posed for pictures afterwards.

Zuma said that during their meeting, Bono had indicated that Africa was close to his heart. "I was expecting more music, but he raised serious issues ... he is concerned about Africa," Zuma said.

Bono thanked Zuma for his warm reception and gave him an iPod as a gift.

The U2 frontman noted that over a million South Africans were now on free anti-retroviral treatment.

He also applauded Zuma for his transparency and approach towards the mining industry, saying the country had R4.4-trillion worth of mineral wealth, which "should be shared equally."

U2 performed in front of a full house at FNB Stadium, formerly Soccer City, in Johannesburg on Sunday night, and are expected to awe crowds at Cape Town Stadium on Friday night.

The City of Cape Town has urged fans who will be attending Friday's concert to use public transport to and from the stadium, which will be free to fans with tickets

Source: BuaNews



	U2 lead singer Bono pays a courtesy call on South African President Jacob Zuma at his residence in Genadendal, Cape Town, 17 February 2011 (Photo: The Presidency)

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