Thursday, 29 May 2008

• Prev
• Next

Madonna's adoption approved

Material Girl is now official carer for David Banda

Madonna received a glowing report from a social worker

Madonna and husband Guy Ritchie’s adoption of David Banda has finally been made official by a Malawian court – 18 months after they first began their application.

Justice Andrew Nyirenda was satisfied with the glowing recommendation by a social worker who visited the family at their London home.

The singer, 49, was granted temporary custody over David, now 2, when she saw him in an orphanage in October 2006.

Biological dad Yohane, who put the toddler in care after his mum died from Aids, says he’s happy with the outcome.

‘I'm glad it's all over,’ he tells the BBC. ‘I'm glad David has a new, good home.’

Madonna was not at the court in Malawi's capital, Lilongwe, for the ruling, but her lawyer Alan Chinula says the decision was a landmark ruling.

‘We are very happy with what the judge has ruled,’ he says. ‘It's a positive and beautiful judgment that will have an impact on Malawi's adoption laws.’

Madonna is already mum to daughter Lourdes, 11, with ex Carlos Leon, and son Rocco, 7, with Guy, 39.