Madonna given green-light to adopt David Banda

Madonna has been given the green-light to adopt Malawi tot David Banda, according to reports in the US.

Sources say the chart star - who has been a foster mother to the two-year-old boy for more than a year - was told by government officials she has been cleared to be his permanent guardian.

A source close to Madonna told a US magazine: "Madonna hid it well, but there was a part of her that was worried that the adoption wouldn't go through.

"She is beyond relieved that this ordeal is behind her and that David is now her son.

"This is the best Christmas gift she's ever received."

The child had been living with the singer in London since October 2006.

The singer was initially criticized for allegedly bending the rules to take the tot back to the UK from the African country. She was originally granted temporary custody of the lad for 18 months.

But now a new report into David's life with Madonna and husband Guy Ritchie and their kids is said to recommend she be given full custody of him.

According to magazine In Touch Weekly, the report, prepared by Malawi's chief social worker Simon Chisale, refers to the toddler as a "happy and secure toddler". It says he is "very active and is able to climb up on the furniture". He also likes music and is starting to say words "bye-bye".

It also states that the Ritchies are a normal family, with "clear routines around eating together and bedtimes". It notes that David has formed close bonds with his new siblings, Lourdes, 11, and Rocco, seven.

The report adds: "Mrs Ritchie says that Rocco and David are especially close because Rocco is [closer in age to David]." It also praises Guy Ritchie's parenting skills. "David seems very happy and relaxed around Mr Ritchie. He [David] enjoys being cuddled."

Madonna is still expected to attend an official hearing in Malawi in April 2008.

A spokeswoman for Madonna did not return calls today (wed).

Madonna, 49, said when she first brought the then 13-month-old boy back to the UK on October 2006 that she had "never been happier".

The superstar added: 'It's so worth it. He's just the best baby ever. Guy and I have never been happier."

Then he was a malnourished infant at the Home of Hope orphanage. Now, the report says, he is a healthy 22 lbs and "eats well".

Madonna is said to be planning a lavish party in January to toast the good news.

UPDATED 9:25am EST.