Background: Successful administration of antiretroviral therapy (ART) requires full adherence to the regimen by the patient. The introduction of ART needs a well-functioning health system with adequately trained health professionals, laboratory support, a constant supply of drugs and social systems to assist with patients' adherence and to prevent future treatment failure.

Objectives: The objective of this study was to explore and describe the challenges experienced by nongovernmental organisations with regard to the roll-out of antiretroviral therapy.

Design:A qualitative, exploratory and descriptive study was conducted to determine the challenges experienced by nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) with regard to the roll-out of ART in KwaZulu-Natal. Nine participants were included purposefully from the NGOs that participated in this study. Data were collected through semi-structured individual interviews. Open coding for analysis was used.

Results: The findings revealed four themes: challenges relating to sustainability, adherence, health infrastructure and behaviour.

Conclusion: The results indicate a need for multisectoral collaboration in the roll-out of ART to ensure a concerted, comprehensive and sustainable programme.