Madonna returns to Malawi to launch girls' school
Madonna made a ground-breaking trip to Malawi this week – quite literally – as she grabbed a spade to mark the beginning of construction on a new school for girls.
The Material Girl was the guest of honour as she laid the first foundation stone for the £9 million academy, which she is funding through her Raising Malawi charity.
And though suitably conservative, in a demure black dress and patterned shawl, there was still a hint of her ever-daring sartorial sense, as she hit the dirt in tie-up stiletto heels.
Speaking at the event, she commented: ‘Growing up in a privileged life, I took education for granted, but coming to Malawi has taught me a lot of things and I have learnt to appreciate what life gives.’
‘People always ask me, “Why did you choose Malawi?” But I have always said: “Malawi chose me.”‘
The superstar is in Africa with all four of her children, Lourdes, Rocco, David and Mercy.
The trip marks the first return to Malawi for four-year-old Mercy, who was adopted earlier this year, while David was adopted from the country back in 2008.
