Actress Scarlett Johansson Visits Rwanda To Raise AIDS Awareness

September 17, 2008 10:23 a.m. EST

Hollywood, CA (CNS) - Actress Scarlett Johansson is joining in another cause, this time to raise the awareness of AIDS in African nations. Johansson recently spent four days attending AIDS clinics alongside charity workers for RED, a charity launched to combat the deadly disease through the power of consumerism.

RED, a global brand launched by U2 frontman Bono in 2006, has partnered with huge retail companies including Gap, American Express and Converse. The companies share the profits from the RED items to help fight AIDS in the impoverished continent.

The actress praised the rocker's campaign, claiming that the foundation does really help those in the area who are suffering the most. She told People.com, "It was important for me to come here and see the issues we're up against first hand."

"I came here with an open mind, wanted to listen, understand and learn; I leave with the overwhelming understanding that the small action of making a RED choice in your purchases...has an enormous impact on the lives of people in countries like Rwanda."