Scarlett Johansson Visits Rwanda To Raise AIDS Awareness 9/17/08

Scarlett Johansson has visited Rwanda to increase awareness of AIDS sufferers in African nations.

The 23-year-old spent four days attending AIDS clinics alongside charity workers for RED - the initiative to combat the deadly disease through the power of consumerism.

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

And Johansson praised the rocker's campaign, insisting the initiative really helps those who are suffering most.

She tells 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, wanting 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."