Roundup: Kenyan lobbyists protest against same sex unions ahead of Obama visit

Kenyan anti-gay lobbyists on Monday held a protest in Nairobi to condemn same sex unions, saying they contravene African cultural values and could lead to collapse of the family unit.

The lobbyists, who took part in the demonstration, were drawn from Christian denominations, parliament, educational institutions and community based organizations.

"The family is the foundation of the society and should be defended and promoted at all cost. Homosexual practices not only degrade the institution of marriage but goes against cultural norms," the lobbyists said.

The lobbyists also warned U.S. President Barrack Obama against promoting gay right during his visit to Kenya in late July.

"As a country, we will not allow any foreign nation or organization to advocate for the adoption of practices that violates our core values. Homosexuality is an affront on traditional African culture and beliefs," said Irungu Kangata, a lawmaker, who has convened a parliamentary caucus to push for a legislation that bans homosexuality in Kenya.

Lawmaker Jamleck Kamau urged Obama to respect Kenyans culture, saying they would not compromise the longstanding traditions, which speak against same-sex marriages.

So far South Africa and Mozambique are the only African countries that have legalised homosexuality.

Obama is expected to visit the country, his father's homeland, on July 24-26 for the first time since becoming U.S. President.

The upcoming visit is already causing jitters among the political leadership in Kenya. The leaders, who include Deputy President William Ruto, National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi and some religious leaders, have opposed to same sex marriage.

"Homosexuality is against the plan of God and should not be tolerated. God did not create man and woman so that men would marry men and women marry women," Ruto said.

The deputy president said late on Sunday that Kenya will not legalize gay marriages despite vigorous campaigns from Western lobby groups.

"The government will not tolerate practices that are culturally unacceptable. Gay marriages have no place in a country that cherishes its moral values," he added.

The Kenyan constitution does not recognize same sex unions though pro-gay lobbyists have been pushing for amendments to allow gays and lesbians tie the knot.

Presidential Spokesman, Manoah Esipisu said that Kenya will not endorse homosexual practices despite pressure from Western partners.

Esipisu said the Kenyan government respects freedom of choice so long as it does not jeopardize social order.

"We respect the stance taken by the U.S. government to legalize gay marriages, but will not allow the practice to be imposed on us, " Esipisu told reporters. Endi