Table 3 Thematic network analysis: from basic themes to organising themes

Community groups support PLWHA and orphaned and vulnerable children

Representations of self: “It is very good for us to work together”

Community group members support each other

Community groups cannot respond effectively to HIV on their own

Collaboration is necessary, provides credibility and motivation

NGOs set the priorities

Representations of other: “they [NGOs] have the final say, and we just do what they say”

NGOs expect obedience

NGOs may not approach the community ‘the right way’

Active community groups more likely to be selected by NGOs as partners

Communicative strategy: “they [NGOs] should not be met by lazy people”

Community groups distance themselves from ‘laziness’