African activists welcome ACT bill THE passing of a bill by the ACT parliament allowing same-sex marriage has sparked interest in African countries such as Uganda, where legislation to make homosexuality illegal is being considered. The press in Africa have run stories on the decision, with gay communities and their supporters warmly welcoming the move. Speaking from Gambia, renowned gay and lesbian rights advocate Pepe Onziema said on Friday: "I celebrate with the gay community in Australia. I believe every adult should have the right and choice to marry who they love. Burundi gay activist Stella Uwimana said: "It is great that lawmakers in Australia have at last seen light as far as same sex marriage is concerned. I salute them over that. She urged legislators in Africa to follow suit and not only allow homosexual people to live freely, but let them marry one another if they so wish. An activist in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Pierre Lovi, said: "If developed countries like Australia and others can allow same sex marriage, why do some African countries still regard the act as a terrible sin? They need to wake up. "I hope those advocating for the anti-gay bill (in Uganda) to be passed into law have learnt something from Australia," said Ugandan, activist James Kajaga. Instead of making laws against rampart corruption, they want to disturb the peace of gays. Among stories quoted by African media was one which said: "Thousands of champagne corks popped in unison around Australia today in a spontaneous and synchronised expression of joy. The nationwide celebration was sparked today when the ACT Parliament voted to let gay and lesbian couples marry in Australia for the very first time. This is a momentous day and it's important at times like this to look back at what it took to get here.