A second-year law student at Kampala International University, Dennis Zziwa, sustained injuries during a Good Friday “Way of the Cross” reenactment held at Our Lady of Africa Church in Mbuya, Uganda, on April 3, 2026.
While portraying Jesus Christ in the annual passion play, Zziwa received several lashes and beatings as part of the dramatization of Christ’s suffering.
The incident occurred in the presence of a large gathering of worshippers and spectators.Red Cross personnel stationed at the event promptly administered first aid to the injured student.
He was subsequently transferred to Lamone Health Center in Luzira, where he received further medical attention and remained under observation.
Reports confirm that his condition has stabilized and he continues to receive appropriate care.The episode has prompted renewed attention to the implementation of adequate safety measures during live religious performances, particularly those involving physically demanding scenes.
Eyewitness accounts described the moment as emotionally charged, with the line between theatrical representation and actual harm becoming blurred amid the intensity of the reenactment.
