Madonna, 50, who was barred from taking home four-year-old Malawian girl Chifundo "Mercy" James in April because she was not a resident of the country for the required 18 months, was told earlier today that she would be allowed to give the girl a new home. During a 90 minute hearing held earlier today at Malawi's Supreme Court, Madonna found out the good news.

Malawi's chief justice Lovemore Munlo said:

“In our view, Chifundo James would be better taken care of if she was adopted by foreign parents who will give her love and affection. We therefore grant the adoption.”

In making his decision, the judge said that he took into consideration Madonna's commitment to giving Malawian orphans an improved standard of life, and commented that her financial stability made her a good candidate for adoption.

Madonna is said to be very "excited" by the news. Her lawyer, Alan Chinula, said:

Madonna is very “excited” with the news. The pop superstar’s lawyer Alan Chinula said:

“It's the wee hours of morning in New York but she is excited at the news. As her lawyer I am happy this has settled this contentious issue.”

Chinula added that he is currently arranging Madonna's travel plans for Mercy, and is in the process of getting the girl a passport.

Madonna previously adopted three-year-old David Banda from the country. She has also set up the Raising Malawi foundation, which aims to give orphans food, education, and medical care.