Microsoft tycoon Gates appears at London Live 8 to back Africa plan
LONDON (AFP) - US software billionaire Bill Gates made a surprise appearance at the London leg of the Live 8 concerts, throwing his full support behind a campaign for rich nations to end poverty in Africa.
Introduced to a crowd of some 200,000 by Live 8 mastermind Bob Geldof, the Microsoft founder won huge cheers when he rallied behind work by British Prime Minister
"I believe that if you show people the problems and you show them the solutions they will be moved to act," said a soberly-dressed Gates, looking somewhat out of place on a stage kitted out with instruments and lighting for some of the world's greatest artists such as Madonna and U2.
"The huge turnout for Live 8 here and around the world proves that," Gates said, referring to the multi-gig marathon near Toronto as well as in Berlin, Johannesburg, Moscow, Philadelphia, Paris, Rome and Tokyo. An additional African-themed event is taking place in southwest England.
"Thanks to leadership by people like Tony Blair and (British finance minister) Gordon Brown, the world is beginning to demand more action on global health and poverty," said Gates, who is a major personal donor to charity.
He said life had taught him that success was achieved by knowing what works and bringing resources to the problem.
"We know what to do, the generosity we are asking for can save millions of lives," Gates said.
"Some day in the future all people no matter where they are born will be able to lead a healthy life," he said, to cheers of agreement.
"We can do this and when we do it will be the best thing that humanity has ever done."
Before leaving the stage, Gates introduced the next artist, British songstress Dido.
Geldof, the Irish rocker-turned-campaigner who spearheaded the original Live Aid charity concert in 1985, hopes to use the moment to focus efforts into pressuring the Group of Eight (G8) leaders to strike a deal on debt, aid and trade for Africa at a summit in Scotland on July 6-8.
Blair, who will host the conclave, has put Africa, along with climate change, at the top of the agenda.