Madonna has spoken about her recent failed bid to adopt a girl from the African country of Malawi.

The singer, who plans to appeal the decision, told the country’s Nation newspaper that she still wants to provide sanctuary for four-year-old Chifundo (Mercy) James.

"I want to provide Mercy with a home, a loving family environment and the best education and healthcare possible," she was quoted as saying via email.

A local judge ruled earlier this month that Madonna couldn’t adopt James due to residency rules.

Malawian law states adoptive parents must be resident in the country for 18 to 24 months.

The singer wants James to join David Banda, whom she adopted from the same Malawian orphanage in 2006.

In her email, Madonna said: “It’s my hope that she, like David, will one day return to Malawi and help the people of their country."

The singer also thanked locals and friends around the world who had shown support over recent weeks.

(by Jason Gregory)