On March 8, 2025, the Phaneroo Grounds in Naguru became a scene of extraordinary grit and grace as Men Gather VIII, themed “The Man Project,” unfolded under a dramatic downpour. Hosted by Apostle Grace Lubega and Phaneroo Ministries International, this year’s gathering clashed with International Women’s Day and marked the end of a punishing dry spell that had parched Uganda since January. Yet, neither rain nor rival celebrations could dim the spirit of thousands of men who stood firm, drenched but determined, to receive the Word of God, join in fervent prayers, and revel in soul-lifting performances. This was more than an event—it was a testament to faith, purpose, and the unbreakable resolve of Ugandan men.
Also, read about their Guinness World Record
Women’s Day vs Men Gather VIII vs The Rain
The timing couldn’t have been more poetic. As the world honored women, Men Gather VIII carved out its own space, drawing a massive crowd to the sprawling Phaneroo Grounds in Kampala’s northeastern suburb of Naguru. The skies, silent for months, chose this day to unleash a heavy rain—the first significant deluge of 2025 after a drought that had left fields cracked and throats dry. But these men weren’t fazed. Clad in sodden shirts and muddy shoes, they remained rooted, their eyes fixed on the stage where Apostle Grace Lubega and a lineup of renowned preachers delivered messages that cut through the storm.
The rain turned the grounds into a quagmire, yet it only amplified the day’s intensity. A choir moment filled the air with harmony, voices rising above the patter of drops, while prayers—deep, earnest, and collective—bound the crowd in a shared spiritual fervor. Organizers had planned for “The Man Project” to inspire, but nature added its own twist, testing the attendees’ commitment and proving their mettle.
What did Apostle Grace Lubega preach during Men Gather VIII?
At the heart of the day was Apostle Grace Lubega, the founder of Phaneroo Ministries and architect of Men Gather. His sermon was a clarion call to individuality and divine purpose. “A man can be completely different from the rest of his family,” he proclaimed, his voice carrying over the rain-soaked crowd. “A parent may wonder because he has a certain glory on him—a glory that sets him apart, that marks him for something greater.”
Lubega urged the men to see themselves not as products of their past or lineage, but as vessels of God’s unique design, destined to shine in their own right. The message struck a chord, with shouts of agreement echoing across the grounds, a powerful reminder that identity in faith transcends circumstance.
Who else preached during the Men Gather VIII Session 2025?
The event wasn’t a one-man show. Bishop Dale Bronner, a respected preacher from the United States, brought a transatlantic perspective that resonated deeply. “Nothing grows in a comfort zone,” he declared, his words a challenge to the men braving the elements. “The greatest transformations in our lives tend to come through the challenges we face. God uses challenges to shape and build us to birth His vision for our lives.” Bronner went further, redefining manhood: “A man is not defined by birth or birth gender, but a man is defined by purpose.” His sermon was a rallying cry, perfectly timed as the rain tested the crowd’s endurance, turning discomfort into a lesson in growth.
What did Dr David Malapo preach during Men Gather VIII?
Dr. David Malapo from South Africa added a layer of emotional depth to the day’s teachings. “Allow Jesus to be part of your story,” he urged, before diving into the perils of unchecked emotion. “Emotional intelligence is critical with managing anger. Anger often stems from a lack of affirmation and unresolved emotions. Without cultivating emotional intelligence, you risk making impulsive decisions that can lead to your destruction. SELAH.” Malapo’s practical advice offered a roadmap for navigating personal storms, complementing the physical one overhead.
Who else performed at Men Gather VIII 2025?
The rain didn’t drown out the joy. Ugandan artists Kajambiya and Zabuli took to the stage, their performances injecting a burst of energy into the soggy proceedings. Kajambiya’s infectious beats and Zabuli’s soulful vocals had the crowd swaying, some even dancing despite the mud clinging to their feet. Additional singers joined the lineup, though specifics remain a joyful blur in the post-event buzz, and the choir’s rendition of praise songs lifted spirits skyward. These musical interludes were more than entertainment—they were a celebration of life, a defiant middle finger to the weather’s attempt to dampen the mood.
When was the very first Men Gather conference by Phaneroo?
Men Gather’s journey began in 2017, a modest initiative sparked by Apostle Grace Lubega to rally men around faith and responsibility. Back then, it was a smaller affair, but the vision was bold: to equip men to lead in their homes, workplaces, and communities. Eight years later, it’s a juggernaut, drawing thousands annually. A pivotal moment came in 2021 when Phaneroo Ministries acquired the Naguru grounds, transforming a patch of land into a permanent base for its growing flock. This year’s rain-soaked edition underscored the site’s significance—not just a venue, but a proving ground for resilience and renewal.
Who is Apostle Grace Lubega?
Apostle Grace Lubega is no ordinary figure. A Kampala-born preacher with a razor-sharp mind and a heart for transformation, he founded Phaneroo Ministries International in 2014. The name “Phaneroo,” derived from Greek for “to make manifest,” encapsulates his mission: to reveal Christ’s power in tangible ways. A husband and father, Lubega blends spiritual authority with a down-to-earth approach, making him a relatable yet revered leader. His weekly services at the Naguru grounds draw thousands, while millions tune in online, captivated by his blend of scripture and real-world insight. Men Gather VIII is just one fruit of his labor—a testament to a man who’s turned a personal calling into a national movement.
A Day That Defined ‘The Man Project’ | Men Gather VIII
March 8, 2025, was a day of layers. It clashed with Women’s Day, yet carved its own legacy. It broke a drought, yet watered souls. The rain could’ve been a spoiler, but instead, it became a co-star, framing Men Gather VIII as a story of defiance and devotion. Apostle Grace’s vision of a man’s unique glory set the tone, while Bishop Bronner’s call to purpose and Dr. Malapo’s emotional toolkit gave the crowd meat to chew on. Kajambiya, Zabuli, and the choir ensured no one left without a song in their heart.
For the thousands who stood through the deluge, this wasn’t just another Saturday. It was a declaration: Ugandan men, soaked to the bone, choosing faith over flight, purpose over pity. In a year that began with dryness, Men Gather VIII brought a flood—of hope, strength, and good news. As the muddy footprints faded from Naguru, the impact lingered, a reminder that even in the storm, “The Man Project” stands tall.
