Madonna Malawi adoption - ActionAid statement

Madonna and inter country adoption – ActionAid statement

As Madonna goes to court to finalise the adoption of Mercy James in Malawi, ActionAid says there are better ways to help in a world where over 27,000 children die from preventable diseases every day.

ActionAid spokesperson, Jane Moyo said: “Whilst Madonna’s proposed adoption in Malawi may help one child, it’s not going to make a difference to the millions of children living and dying in poverty in the developing world.

"ActionAid believes there are better ways to help. We need to keep parents alive and families together by fighting the extreme poverty that destroys lives.

"Malawi and countries across Africa need sustainable long-term help to address the crucial issues of poverty and Aids that annihilate families and communities."

ActionAid say that in the UK, people can help ensure children, their families and communities become more resilient by signing up to child sponsorship shemes or other forms of giving, and by campaigning for lasting change.

Jane Moyo concluded: "We do not doubt Madonna’s good intentions. But if at all possible a child should remain in their own family and community."