Renowned Christian fellowship Phaneroo Ministries International is set to host the ninth edition of its annual Men Gather Conference on March 7, at the ministry’s grounds in Naguru, Kampala.
Addressing journalists during a press conference at Protea Hotel Kampala Skyz, on Monday, Pastor Ronnie Mutebi from Phaneroo said the conference has evolved into a transformative platform for men across Uganda and beyond.
“This is an annual event exclusively for men. It does not segregate in age or race. We are now in our ninth year, and the growth we have seen has been tremendous,” Pastor Mutebi said.
He noted that while men are often viewed as leaders and providers, the expectations placed on them can create silent pressure.
“Men are expected to inspire, provide, guide and transform those around them. Yet sometimes this weight of expectation works against them. Through Men Gather, we engage men in their roles as sons, fathers and husbands, and challenge them to become nation builders and figures of inspiration in their families and workplaces,” he explained.
According to him, the conference offers practical, long-term solutions to challenges such as work-related stress, financial pressure, mental health struggles and lifestyle concerns.
“Sometimes men think they are alone in what they are facing. But when men gather, they sharpen each other. You realise you are not alone, and that gives you courage to persist,” he added.
Last year’s edition attracted more than 40,000 men. This year, organisers are projecting over 50,000 attendees, citing intensified mobilisation efforts.
“We would not organise another conference if we did not see positive transformation from the previous ones. We follow up on the men who attend and track the impact in their lives and families,” Pastor Mutebi said, pointing to testimonies of restored families and renewed purpose among past participants.
Corporate partners also pledged support for the initiative.
Samuel Kazooba from Equity Bank Uganda said the bank will use the platform to equip men with financial knowledge.
“As Equity Bank, we are the main banking partners. We shall ensure men are equipped with the right banking information, how to open accounts on their phones, how to grow their money and most importantly, how to invest,” Kazooba said, noting that financial stability boosts confidence and leadership at home.
Lennon Ssemuwemba of The Motorcenter East Africa Ltd said the company aligns with the conference’s vision of inspiring men.
“We are proud to be part of Season Nine. We want to guide men on their car ownership journey and provide insights on how to take care of their vehicles. Our team will be on ground to engage and support,” he said.
Agnes Mbabazi from Uzima Chicken said their involvement is aimed at encouraging male participation in agribusiness.
“When the head of the family is aligned, everything else falls into place. We want to meet men in one place and introduce a business model that is not capital intensive but profitable, so families can be economically empowered,” she noted.
Organisers say gates will open at 8am at the Naguru grounds, with participants expected from Uganda, across East Africa and other parts of the world.
