The collaboration between HIV/Aids support organisations has been significantly affected by pandemic-related dynamics. This study investigated the collaboration between small-scale HIV support NGOs and a public health institution in the Western Cape metropole area during Covid-19.

Employing a case study approach, the research delved into the challenges and facilitators of collaboration. Purposive sampling was used to select participants from two small-scale NGOs and a public health institution, who were then interviewed and engaged in a focus group discussion.

The findings identified six challenges and five enablers in the collaboration process. Challenges included inadequate engagement, resource limitations, staffing shortages, limited innovation skills, increased workload and drug resistance in HIV and TB. Enablers comprised effective coordination, established procedures, leadership initiatives, communication and trust.

The recommendations included the adoption of adaptive strategies by practitioners in small-scale HIV/Aids support organisations during emergencies, sustainable support for such NGOs during global crises and the necessity for further research to develop collaboration frameworks in disruptive situations. The study underscored the importance of understanding local and global pandemic-related dynamics in HIV/Aids support collaboration.