GLOUCESTER, England, Jan. 7 (UPI) -- A new report says U.S. pop singer Madonna, who lives in Britain but has adopted an African child, has been paying for an African adoption official's education.
The Mail on Sunday said the 48-year-old singer allegedly has paid more than $38,000 toward Malawian adoption official Willard Manjolo's college education prior to her controversial adoption.
Ever since Madonna adopted David Banda from a Malawian orphanage on Oct. 10, the "American Life" singer and her husband, director Guy Richie, have been the targets of criticism.
Another official at Malawi's Ministry for Gender and Child Welfare said the payment was merely an attempt by the singer to help train one of its personnel, a declaration that Manjolo promptly endorsed.
"It is unfortunate if people use their wealth to manipulate events," said Manjolo, who is attending school in Britain, "but I don't think it happened in this case. Her application was considered on merit.
"If it is in the best interests of the child, people should not argue about it. This child is being given an opportunity," he added. "But you must adhere to the professional requirements to avoid child trafficking."
