poorest continent.
campaign to highlight the plight of some 900,000 orphans in this impoverished nation of 13 million people, where AIDS has destroyed many families.
to help these children, spearheaded by the Raising Malawi charity.
She and an entourage, including her husband filmmaker Guy Ritchie, have been staying in an upscale lodge in the capital ahead of visit.
Security has been tight, with press kept away from the star.
In Gumulira, an arid village of 6,000 people near the border with Zambia, the local chief said residents were grateful for the Malawi, which has earmarked $1.
5 million to the village.
"We have lost many parents here," said George Gumulira, who is named after the village. "The school was built to give opportunities to the children.
We are hoping for an extension and we have been told that Madonna will visit."
Esau Emalasoni, a 10-year-old child in the village, echoes the importance of the project.
"My parents are no longer here, so the village takes care of me," Emalasoni said.
"I work in the fields, but I also go to school now."
Despite the gratitude, questions persist about whether Madonna continent's biggest problems, such as fighting AIDS and alleviating poverty.
a public relations push.
"Every PR person says 'Which country do you want to adopt?'," Africa's popularity among celebrities.
Others have questioned the stars' methods and motives.
centre funded by Raising Malawi would, as part of their studies, be taught a curriculum based on Spirituality for Kids, linked to the Kabbalah school of Jewish mysticism, of which Madonna is a follower.
There's a lack of long-term commitment," said an aid worker in Lilongwe, who asked not to be identified.
"Madonna will raise awareness internationally, but locally not much will happen.
"
whisked away to a better life overseas.
orphanage supported by Madonna.
Mpheso Ngulube, 11, said she was told a famous, wealthy lady would take her to England, far from the village where her widowed hut.
country," she told the newspaper.
Mpheso's mother, Regina Chapotera, said living in a foreign still see her.
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