There has been huge debate up and down the continent. On the one hand it is clear that the Malawian boy in question was living in an institution which is less than ideal for any child. On the other hand he does have a father and grandmother. One key question is if Madonna is that concerned for this child's welfare why not give the family money which would allow his family to raise him in his own country and culture?
There seems to be a worrying trend amongst celebrities who feel that money can 'buy' souls and thus solve all of their problems. Raising a child is so much more than material trappings. Adoptions are complicated at the best of times and many trans-cultural and trans-racial adoptions leave the child feeling like they really do not belong anywhere - amongst other serious problems.
We are so much more than the sum total of our basic needs - will this child's spiritual, emotional and psychological needs really be met by having an adoptive mother who really has only a scant understanding of his background?
There are so many wonderful projects being run in African countries that allow children access to basic needs and education whilst keeping them close to their family and loved ones. I personally think it would be better to support good work that is already being done.
What do you think?
Last edited by C_AfricanCulture; 11/03/06 05:43 AM.
