Phaneroo Ministries International has dismissed social media reports alleging it is embroiled in a land dispute with the Uganda Heart Institute, labeling the claims as false, misleading, and based on a misrepresentation of facts.
In a statement issued on April 16, 2026, the ministry responded to reports of a standoff between the two entities over land in Naguru—an area designated for expansion under the government-supported Naguru Medical Hub Development Masterplan.
Phaneroo clarified that no dispute exists and emphasized that interactions with relevant stakeholders have remained ongoing and constructive. It noted that both itself and the Uganda Heart Institute are actively involved in engagements coordinated through the Uganda Land Commission.
The ministry pointed to a multi-stakeholder meeting held on March 17, 2026, as evidence of continued dialogue, stressing that such engagements contradict claims of a communication breakdown or stalled negotiations.
Phaneroo further stated that, like any duly registered entity, it has a lawful right to acquire and develop land in Uganda. It added that it is not aware of any irregularities concerning its land ownership in Naguru and maintained that there is no impasse since discussions are still ongoing.
The organization also highlighted that both parties have already made notable investments in the area, with visible development activity taking shape. It reiterated that issues related to land allocation and ownership fall under the authority of the Uganda Land Commission, which remains the mandated body to address any concerns.
On infrastructure concerns, Phaneroo explained that planning for roads within the Naguru Medical Hub is being handled by government agencies, including the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Kampala Capital City Authority, and the National Planning Authority. It argued that it would be inaccurate to accuse the ministry of delaying the Heart Institute’s projects, as it is not responsible for that process.
The ministry also said it is unaware of any critical installations on the land it occupies, apart from sections earmarked for planned road works.
Phaneroo criticized what it described as efforts to depict it as an obstacle to national development, warning that such narratives amount to blackmail and undermine constructive engagement.
It reaffirmed its willingness to collaborate with government bodies and partners in advancing the Naguru Medical Hub project and broader national development objectives, maintaining its commitment to community welfare and national progress.
Lead Pastor Speaks
Meanwhile, Apostle Grace Lubega has directly responded to the allegations, insisting that the ministry is not involved in any land grabbing and remains open to lawful development processes.
“So, because of that, you have heard that Phaneroo is trying to grab land. We are not grabbing anybody’s land,” he said.
“And then some individuals said, no, we want to develop and we want to put a road. We said, no, we don’t have a problem. If you want a road, compensate the money the people bought the land for. Don’t try to use politics to arm twist the hands of people to give what was bought with money.”
He emphasized that compensation is a government responsibility, not for private entities to negotiate outside legal frameworks.
“We don’t have a problem, but there’s a process of compensation and that’s not our part or their part. It’s the government’s part to do that. Are you following? So, Phaneroo is not standing in the way of any development, not with any institution.”
Apostle Lubega stressed that the ministry is not opposed to development but insists on fairness to its members.
“We don’t have a problem. We just said, if you want part of our land, compensate what the Christians paid for, it’s not for free. That’s not a good steward.”
He also raised concerns about planning and safety, calling for transparency in infrastructure designs.
“And number two, if you have a plan of a road, show us the plan such that we don’t conflict the rest of the neighbors… Imagine you put a road up there and cars are speeding up there and they roll down and crash people down.”
He noted that the land belongs to the ministry’s members and leadership has a duty to protect it.
“This land is not for Apostle Grace. It’s for the members of Phaneroo Ministries International.”
The pastor suggested that some narratives circulating are driven by misinformation or deliberate intent but expressed no hostility.
“So many people, I think some are uninformed or some are paid to build a narrative and we forgive them. We don’t have anything against them.”
He called on followers to remain prayerful while maintaining the ministry’s position.
“This is a season that will require your prayers… that the Lord will help them not spoil the good name of the gospel.”
While acknowledging that the ministry may not always respond publicly, he said it will speak when necessary.
“We might not write on the internet… but we will speak when we must.”
He concluded by reaffirming that Phaneroo supports development done in good faith but will not accept unfair treatment.
“We are not against what has to be done through all goodwill. But Phaneroo will not be cheated one inch. That I assure you. That’s what we are fighting for.”
Apostle Grace Lubega and his Phaneroo Ministries International church have previously faced public criticism, including from a retired Anglican church assistant bishop, over a multi-million church project to be funded by followers. The bishop referred to the Shs200bn church building project as robbery in Jesus’ name, but he is was quickly labelled a Judas Iscariot. (See Details Here, There and Over There).
Apostle Grace Lubega and his Phaneroo Ministries have also previously on the spot for choking on bank loans, an issue the church addressed. (See Details Here and There).
Apostle Grace Lubega also got in trouble online after he linked Baganda names to sudden death and disease demons, as detailed Here.
