Get breaking news alerts and special reports. The news and stories that matter, delivered weekday mornings.

Pop star Madonna has adopted twin girls from Malawi, announcing on social media she was "overjoyed" to bring them into her family.

The singer, 58, was granted permission by Malawi's High Court this week to adopt the twin girls.

She posted a photo on Instagram of herself walking along a rural path with the girls, who were wearing identical blue and white dresses and one wearing a hat.

"I am deeply grateful to all those in Malawi who helped make this possible, and I ask the media please to respect our privacy during this transitional time," the singer said in her post.

No details were given on the twins' names, age and background.

Madonna adopted Malawian children David Banda and Mercy James in 2006 and 2009. She has two other children, Lourdes and Rocco, from previous relationships.

She established the non-profit Raising Malawi in 2006 to provide health and education programs, particularly for girls.