Introduction: this study aimed to understand the influence of local media, religion and cultural beliefs on the therapeutic compliance of patients living with HIV.

Methods: this study was conducted in two rural hospitals in the Central Kongo province of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Semi-directional interviews were conducted with patients on antiretroviral therapy using a phenomenological qualitative method.

Results: our results indicated that patients living with HIV in the rural region of the Democratic Republic of Congo are in a constant state of tension between the messages for compliance to antiretroviral treatment advocated by caregivers, and those broadcasted by audiovisual media, religious leaders and local beliefs. This dissonance constitutes a real barrier to therapeutic compliance.

Conclusion: collaborative strategies between healthcare providers, patients, as well as religious, media and traditional organizations are urgently needed.