By Our Reporter
The leadership of Phaneroo Ministries International, headed by Apostle Grace Lubega, has issued an official statement addressing the circulation of sensitive internal records on social media, including company registration details and resolutions related to multimillion-shilling bank loans.
In a press release dated May 14, Phaneroo described the publication of these records as part of a “coordinated campaign” aimed at tarnishing the integrity and reputation of the ministry. The records, which include documents from the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), detail corporate resolutions to secure loans from Equity Bank and changes in the ministry’s registration structure.
Key Documents Circulated Online
The leaked documents show that Phaneroo Ministries International was initially registered with Apostle Grace Lubega as its sole proprietor. In 2023, two additional names were added as directors: Nicolette Pauline Nakintu, Lubega’s wife, and Modesta Okwomi, a Kenyan national.
The records also include:
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An August 2024 resolution to borrow UGX 10 billion, reportedly signed by Apostle Lubega and his wife.
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An October 2024 resolution to borrow UGX 8.5 billion, signed by all three directors — Apostle Lubega, Nakintu, and Okwomi.
While these documents are public under Ugandan law, their dissemination on social media has raised concerns within the ministry.
Phaneroo’s management firmly rejected the narrative that these documents indicate wrongdoing or financial impropriety. The church accused unnamed individuals of deliberately misrepresenting lawful and transparent operations.
“This is not an isolated incident but rather a deliberate and ongoing attack on the ministry,” the statement read.
“The coordinated effort involves the unauthorized dissemination of official URSB documents with the intention of misleading the public and maligning our reputation.”
The church further revealed that it had also faced attempted cyber intrusions, including efforts to compromise email systems — suggesting a broader campaign of disruption.
Phaneroo clarified that the organization is legally registered as a company limited by guarantee, meaning it has no shareholders, and is also licensed as a national non-governmental organization in Uganda.
“The information in these documents is neither new nor controversial to our partners and members,” the statement added. “Phaneroo operates in full compliance with the laws of Uganda, and our structures are a matter of public record.”
Leadership Appeals for Unity and Focus
Despite the controversy, Phaneroo leadership called on its members to remain steadfast, dismissing the attacks as baseless and ultimately futile.
“The remarkable growth of Phaneroo Ministries, both locally and internationally, is a testament to our faithful stewardship and clear vision. These results speak for themselves,” the statement emphasized.
“We appeal to all our members to remain united in spirit and not to be distracted by campaigns designed to sow division. Truth and integrity will prevail.”
Criticism Amid Major Project Announcement
The controversy comes shortly after Apostle Grace Lubega unveiled plans for a $55 million (approx. UGX 200 billion) mega-church building. In his announcement, the apostle stated that the project would proceed without borrowing, stirring public interest — particularly in light of the shared loan records.
Critics, including former assistant bishop Dr. Zac Niringiye, have condemned the project, accusing Lubega of “robbing in Jesus’ name.” In response, supporters of the ministry have fiercely defended their leader, arguing that attacks against Lubega are hypocritical and biased.
“Leave Balokole alone,” some have said on social media, “and ask for accountability in your own churches.”
Shifting Religious Demographics
The exchange unfolds amid shifting religious trends in Uganda. According to 2024 census data, the number of born-again Christians (Balokole) has significantly increased over the past decade, while Catholic and Anglican numbers have seen a decline.
As Phaneroo continues its expansion, including the construction of what may become one of Uganda’s largest worship facilities, the ministry’s leadership remains committed to its mission of transforming lives through the Gospel, undeterred by what it describes as external efforts to derail its progress.
