I'm talking about his work on both AIDS, Debt relief and Africa... His organization -- DATA (Debt AIDS Trade Africa)
I would argue that he has done a lot to not only raise awareness on an issue that doesn't really play to the heart strings that most celebrity issues do (it's a policy thing rather than a, "how sad look at the dying and starving people" thing).
Let's face it... this is not a sexy cause.
In the US Bush has made commitments of 3.2 Billion dollars to African aid. I understand that much of the language he used to announce this was exactly the kind of language that Bono has been using... Congress ha apparently pledged a further 15 Billion...
Have a look at the DATA website...
http://www.data.org/ To me it feels like the website of any dedicated NGO... The only difference is they have a spokesman in Bono that gives the a profile. The difference between Bono and other spokespeople, as I see it, is that he isn't just a pretty face... He apparently knows his shit.
This is a guy that sits down at the World Economic Forum and can argue policy... not just show up for a photo op...
Sorry about the "hate" thing... I'm just annoyed that I defending a celebrity... it goes against my nature. Anyone else and I'd be quiet. I just think Bono is sincere in his beliefs and *is* doing what he can to make a difference. Oddly enough, he seems to be making some headway.