Ndyamuhaki, Emmanuel2026-09-142026-09-142026-08-12https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11951/2272Postgraduate researchThis study examined the effectiveness of Christian discipleship in the rehabilitation of inmates at Mbarara Central Main Prison, Mbarara, Uganda. The study was guided by the concern that imprisonment should not only punish offenders but also provide opportunities for spiritual transformation, behavioural change, reconciliation, and successful reintegration into society. The study specifically examined the modes of Christian discipleship used in the rehabilitation of inmates, identified the challenges faced by prison chaplaincy in discipling inmates, and suggested effective discipleship programmes that could be used during and after imprisonment. A qualitative research approach was employed, using purposive sampling to select 44 participants, comprising prison chaplaincy leaders, prison officers, and inmates who had received discipleship. Data were collected through interviews, focus group discussions, observation, and documentary review and were analysed thematically and narratively. The study found that Christian discipleship was carried out through Sunday worship services, Bible studies, discipleship classes, counselling and guidance, prayer fellowships, baptism and confirmation, Alpha courses, charismatic renewal, and other Christian programmes. These activities contributed to spiritual growth, moral transformation, hope, forgiveness, and improved relationships among inmates. However, the effectiveness and continuity of discipleship were affected by institutional restrictions, limited trained personnel, inadequate resources, religious diversity, frequent inmate transfers, short sentences, stigma, weak follow-up systems, and limited post-release programmes. The study therefore recommends an integrated discipleship and reintegration model involving prison chaplaincy, prison authorities, churches, families, social workers, counsellors, and other community partners. Such collaboration could strengthen rehabilitation during imprisonment and provide continuous spiritual and social support after release. The study concludes that Christian discipleship can make a significant contribution to the holistic rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates when it is adequately resourced, structured, sustained, and connected to post-prison support.enThesis