Madonna files adoption papers in Malawi

Madonna filed adoption papers at a Malawi court today, a government official said, confirming claims that the star planned to adopt a one-year-old boy.

Benston Kilimbe, director of child welfare services in the Ministry of Gender, Child Welfare and Community Services, said the celebrity and her film director husband Guy Ritchie filed adoption papers today before a judge at the Lilongwe High Court.

“They have followed the normal processes. This has been going on for some time. Now this is the completion point,” he said.

Kilimbe said the judge would review the papers signed by Yohame Banda, father of one-year-old David, whose mother died a month after childbirth.

“After the judge has ruled they are going to take the child,” Kilimbe said.

Banda said he met Madonna and Ritchie at the court as part of the formalities. While they talked, Madonna, who has two children, carried the baby boy.

“They are a lovely couple. She asked me many questions. She and her husband seem happy with David. I am happy for him. Madonna promised me that as the child grows she will bring him back to visit,” Banda said.