In Cancun, Mexico, today, the World Trade Organisation meets to make potentially crucial decisions for the people of Africa.

Ministers of trade from the 146 countries of the World Trade Organization will be at the five day meeting. Campaigners argue that African countries not only need debt relief and more assistance to fight AIDS, they also need fair international trade rules which allow them to earn their own cash, so they can pay for their own health care and education - instead of relying on support from wealthy countries.

Get the lowdown on why reforming the global trading system is so important for the people of Africa by visiting the DATA site here

Bono is one of several musicians who have thrown their weight behind the Trade Justice Movement.
'This is not about charity.' he says. 'Like debt cancellation, this is about justice. The Trade Justice Movement is putting politicians to the test - millions of Africans' livelihoods depend on their response.'
More herewww.tradejusticemovement.org

The Big Noise is an internet based campaign to persuade governments to create a global trading environment that works for the poorest countries. Initiated by the relief and development agency Oxfam, it is supported by several high profile bands including Coldplay and Radiohead. 'The world's leaders won't act unless they hear enough people telling them.' explains Bono. 'And every day they fail to act, thousands of people die because they can't afford the basics of survival. That's why I'm adding my voice to the Big Noise."

Read what else he has to say, and who else is adding their voice to the Big Noise, here www.maketradefair.com