Katy Perry goes to Madagascar for UNICEF

The US popstar Katy Perry has jetted out to Madagascar in aid of UNICEF to help raise awareness of the current situation in one of the poorest countries in the world.

Katy, 28, viewed a variety of programmes highlighting the problems, including education, nutrition, health and child protection to water, sanitation and hygiene.

Her first stop was a slum in the capital of Antananarivo, where she stopped by a child protection centre to see how they help support abandoned and abused children and young mothers.

Speaking about her experience, Katy said in a statement: "In less than one week here in Madagascar, I went from crowded city slums to the most remote villages and my eyes were widely opened by the incredible need for a healthy life - nutrition, sanitation, and protection against rape and abuse - which UNICEF are stepping in to help provide.

"I am grateful to UNICEF for giving me the opportunity to see first-hand how their programmes make a real difference in children's lives. Support for UNICEF is saving children, I am a witness to it."

Katy told her followers on Twitter about her trip on the day she left, writing: "Heading to AFRICA tonight, no joke. (sic)", accompanied with a video titled 'Crazy Intense Lemer'.