FACTORS INFLUENCING NON-ADHERENCE TO ANTI RETROVIRAL THERAPY AMONG HIV/AIDS PATIENTS VISITING GUCHA SUB COUNTY HOSPITAL An antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence of at least 95% has been proven necessary in order for treatment to be effective. Failure to meet this level results in poor immunological and virological outcomes. The objective of study was to determine factors influencing non-adherence to Antiretroviral therapy among HIV and AIDS patients visiting Gucha Sub County hospital. Cross sectional study was carried out at Gucha Sub County hospital in Kisii County Kenya in December 2015. Patients in comprehensive care clinic meeting the inclusion criteria were selected using systematic random sampling method. Both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection were utilized, where structured questionnaire with open and closed type questions where an approximate of 69 participants was selected using fishers et-al method. Key informant interviews for health care providers were conducted. Data was analyzed using SPSS software version 22. Data is presented using charts, graphs and frequency tables. Level of adherence was sub-optimal (83%). Taking ARV drugs without eating any food made patients suffer from side effects thus making them avoid taking the medication. Poverty contributes to lack of food which had a 39.73% on affecting ARV’s followed by Stress having 34.25% lastly lack of proper education having 26.02% effect. Stigma was 32.20% showing highly affecting patients on accessibility of ART’s due to social circle around the HIV patients, negative perception, lack of family and community support is some obstacles to ART adherence. Long travel and distance to hospital for ART and poor weather is barrier to accessibility of ART during such rainy seasons having 20.55% hence a major hinder to optimal adherence. This study is set to be useful to other scholars doing studies in this area and for planning interventions and effective strategies for maximizing long-term adherence to ART for successful treatment of HIV and AIDS from the findings we concluded that lack of meals during medication led to avoidance of taking medicine and long distances of travel from health facilities made the patients lose morale to access the facilities.The study recommended development strategies to enhance food security in household with people living with HIV Aids, intensify health education complains against stigma and promote family and community support for people living HIV.