What do you think about Bono speaking at the National Prayer Breakfast last February?

Question

Do you agree with him about Africa and the concept he has around "one percent"
Please take the time to review his remarks at the link below if not familiar with subject...Thanks!
http://www.data.org/archives/000774.php

Answer 1

I have mixed feelings. You certainly can't find fault with Bono's quest. I can't speak about the accuracy of his references to the Quran but he certainly understands the rudimentary Christian point of view about the poor and I expect him to be the sort who does enough preperation to get the Muslim view correct. The reality of Africa is however that aid pours in and is almost always diverted to the strongbox of some minor warlord or tribal big wig to the detriment of the people who need it. When you remove the offenders the situation just reverses itself. Its an enigma. The biblical parable about caring for your neighbor even includes a veiled reference to the fact that the main characters would be antagonists in another situation much as Bono's protestant and catholic parents might have been or as Ireland itself has been. Lord, who is my neighbor? What has to happen to convince mankind that we're all in this together? Charity and aid have to grow. The world has to take its Kalashnikov 's and Abrams Tanks and beat them into plow blades. Educational opportunities have to expand. Some of the recipients have to show resilience and courage and stand up for justice on their own. Those of us who have a privileged existence have to recognize that our fortunate situations are just an accident of where we were born.
Ordinarily I have a problem with celebrities who think that because they sing well or are fine actors means that they must have some enlightened point of view that they must foist on the general public. I think Bono is right on target.

Answer 2

I thought it was great and yes I agree with him. For anyone who hasn't already joined the ONE campaign, I'd urge you to do so at www.one.org.