Kampala, Uganda: Phaneroo Ministries International founder and lead Pastor, Apostle Grace Lubega, has stirred widespread debate among the public after revealing plans to construct a $55 million (approximately Shs200 billion) church facility, one of the most ambitious religious infrastructure projects in Uganda and East Africa’s modern history.
Speaking to a massive congregation at the Church Venue in Naguru during a recent service, Apostle Lubega said the new church would reflect Phaneroo’s rapid growth and would be built entirely debt-free.
“We are planning to build a $55 million building, and I’m not borrowing,” the Apostle declared. “I am Abraham’s son. Between now and how it will manifest, I know there’s a young man in the industry saying, ‘God, I want to give a million dollars on that.’ He doesn’t have a job, but he has the heart. That’s the one I’m looking for.”
While the location and design details of the planned facility remain undisclosed, it is expected to rank among East Africa’s most iconic church buildings upon completion.
Public Reactions Erupt
A recorded clip of Lubega’s announcement went viral over the weekend, drawing mixed reactions online.
For example, Monitor journalist, Gabriel Buule, questioned the priorities of Uganda’s religious community, saying in a social media post: “It’s funny that we can come together as Christians to contribute money and build a $55m church but not a hospital, factory, or school.”
But it was retired Assistant Bishop Dr. Zac Niringiye who delivered the harshest rebuke, describing the project as “robbery in Jesus’ name.” “What’s even more disturbing and disheartening is that the congregation is clapping,” Niringiye said.
“Gullibility in Jesus’ name! It’s so painful. Meanwhile, no word about poverty, the sprawling slums of Kampala, or a collapsed public healthcare system!”
Lubega’s supporters have also fired back, accusing critics of targeting born-again churches and ignoring similar projects by mainstream denominations. “Why do people keep silent when the Anglican or Catholic Church erects billion-shilling cathedrals, but attack Phaneroo for doing the same?” one follower posted on social media.
About Phaneroo Ministries
Founded in 2014, Phaneroo has grown from a small fellowship into a vibrant evangelical movement attracting thousands, particularly among Uganda’s urban youth.
The ministry’s weekly Thursday and Sunday services are held in Kampala, with followers regularly sharing testimonies of personal transformation through Lubega’s teachings.
Apostle Lubega has previously stirred controversy, notably after associating traditional Baganda names such as Ndawula and Nandawula with spiritual afflictions, a statement that triggered criticism and accusations of tribal insensitivity.
Despite the backlash, Lubega’s vision of building a multi-billion-shilling, debt-free sanctuary signals the unwavering financial faith and loyalty he commands from his congregation.
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