Madonna has hinted that she may adopt another child from the African country of Malawi.

The singer, who adopted David Banda from an orphanage four years ago, said locals had told her to consider another adoption.

In an interview with the country's newspaper, Nation, Madonna also spoke about her recent divorce from film director Guy Ritchie.

"It's something I have been considering,” Madonna replied, when asked whether she would adopt again, “but would only do if I had the support of the Malawian people and the Government.

"Many people — especially our Malawian friends — say that David should have a Malawian brother or sister."

Madonna's adoption of David Banda was widely scrutinised in the media, with some commentators accusing her of using her public profile to speed up the adoption process.

The singer said she had found the criticism “a big struggle” and “painful”.

"I sort of went through my own kind of birthing pains with dealing with the press on my front doorstep, accusing me of kidnapping, or whatever you want to call it," she added.

When asked by a reader about her recent divorce, the singer replied: "Everything between us is very amicable... We both agree that our children should always feel a deep connection with both their parents.

"It is our responsibility to give them that foundation."

(by Jason Gregory)