The Queen of Pop is thanking her fans for backing a campaign which called for the release of two gay men jailed in Malawi after the pair was freed from custody over the weekend.

Madonna adopted two of her children, David and Mercy, from the African nation and is financing the construction of a girls’ school in the capital. Earlier this month, the “Borderline” singer issued a public outcry in protest of the incarceration of Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, who were both sentenced to 14 years behind bars for marrying in Malawi — where homosexuality is illegal. The case — which attracted the attention of the United Nations and Amnesty International — has infuriated human rights activists across the globe. Madonna urged Malawians and her fans across the world to stand against the ruling by adding their names to a petition.

After receiving the petition and meeting with United Nation ambassadors, Malawi’s President Bingu wa Mutharika pardoned the pair and ordered their immediate release on Saturday.

Madge was delighted by the announcement.

In a post on her Raising Malawi website, the pop superstar wrote: “I have always believed love conquers all – yesterday I got to see it in action. In the last week over 30,000 of you added your name to mine calling for the release of Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga – the Malawi couple sentenced to 14 years hard labour for the ‘crime’ of homosexuality. With incredible joy, I am writing to share with you that Malawi President Bingu wa Mutharika has ordered their release. Steven and Tiwonge were freed on Saturday night. They have won their freedom and you have been a part of it. We celebrate this astounding turn of events with Steven, Tiwonge, and the countless Malawians fighting for their release. It is a historic day for Malawi. “Though they are free from prison, sadly their safety and future in Malawi is still unknown. I hope this is just the beginning of our work together….”