Apostle Grace Lubega, the founder and lead pastor of Phaneroo Ministries International, has stirred mixed reactions after revealing plans to build a $55 million (about Shs200 billion) cathedral at the ministry’s Naguru site in Kampala.
Announced during a Sunday service, Lubega emphasized that the project would be entirely financed through faith and internal contributions, without bank loans or external fundraising campaigns.
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“There are people with money but without faith. I know of a young man in this ministry who is currently unemployed but is believing God to give him a million dollars. He doesn’t have a job, but he has the heart,” Lubega told his congregation.
The announcement sparked widespread debate on social media, especially on X (formerly Twitter), where users questioned the priorities of such a large investment in a country facing poverty, inadequate healthcare, and infrastructure deficits.
One user, @blair_Kizza, criticized, “$55 million to build a church is absurd. That money could build a top-tier hospital that would genuinely save lives. But hey, what do I know…”
Another, @LoneChildMJB, added sarcastically, “This guy is a master of reverse psychology. Well done, Phaneroo—$55M! Now it’s a contest. Kakande must be jealous.”
Despite the backlash, others defended the initiative. Supporter @DrNuelMuhumuza tweeted, “Apostle Grace Lubega only attracts wealthy believers! Honestly, $55 million is less than what we thought the cathedral would cost. And yes, we’re going to build it.”
Some pointed out that religious institutions are entitled to pursue their own visions. @GirlQueen76 wrote, “It’s unfair to attack Apostle Grace Lubega for planning to build a $55M church. Let’s not forget—things like roads, hospitals, and infrastructure are the government’s responsibility.”
Although details like the building’s design or construction timeline have not yet been released, the church positions the project as a symbol of divine excellence, faith, and prosperity—potentially making it one of the most costly church developments in Uganda.
Lubega, known for his dynamic preaching and large following, hasn’t directly addressed the criticism but insists the vision will be realized through faith and dedication.
As the discussion continues to trend, the proposed $55 million cathedral has become a flashpoint in debates around faith, wealth, and the expectations placed on religious leaders in Uganda.
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