The DEEPROOTS Community Vital Information Kiosk model places trained youth advisors and HIV prevention resources directly within vulnerable communities, creating trusted local access points for information, support, and health services.”
A Community-Based Innovation for HIV Prevention
DEEPROOTS Community Vital Information Kiosks are one of the flagship innovations of Youth Plus Policy Network Uganda. These kiosks bring trusted health information, prevention tools, and peer support directly into communities that are most vulnerable to HIV.
Located in strategic community spaces, the kiosks serve as safe and accessible hubs where adolescents and young people can receive accurate information on HIV prevention, sexual health, and gender-based violence.
By placing prevention information within the community rather than only in health facilities, the kiosks help reduce stigma and make it easier for young people to seek support.
A Proven Community Access Model
The DEEPROOTS kiosks are inspired by the successful kiosk and agent model used by banks, telecom companies, and fintech services across Africa to deliver financial services in underserved communities.
Just as financial institutions use community-based agents to bring banking closer to people, the DEEPROOTS model uses trained community youth leaders to bring health information and prevention services closer to those who need them most.
This innovative approach transforms simple community kiosks into local access points for HIV prevention, health education, and community support.
How the Kiosks Work
Each kiosk is established within a community identified as vulnerable to HIV and is managed by trained Peer Community Advisors (PCAs) selected by the community.
At the kiosks, PCAs facilitate conversations and provide guidance on topics such as:
• HIV prevention and testing
• sexual and reproductive health
• gender-based violence
• self-care and healthy relationships
• life opportunities and personal development
Community members can interact with PCAs through:
• face-to-face discussions
• phone calls and helplines
• SMS communication
• online platforms
This flexible approach ensures that people can access support in the way that feels most comfortable to them.
Safe Spaces Outside of Clinics
One of the biggest barriers to HIV prevention is stigma associated with visiting health facilities for sexual health services.
Community kiosks address this challenge by creating safe and non-judgmental spaces outside traditional clinical settings.
Here, young people can ask questions, receive information, and access prevention tools without fear or embarrassment.
The kiosks provide:
• free condoms available 24 hours
• HIV self-testing kits
• pregnancy testing kits
• referrals to youth-friendly health services
• information on PrEP and other prevention options
Connecting Communities to Care
Beyond providing information, the kiosks act as bridges between communities and formal health services.
Peer Community Advisors help identify individuals who may benefit from additional support and connect them to appropriate services, including HIV testing, prevention programs, counseling, and other health services.
Special attention is given to young people aged 15–24, who are encouraged to participate in DEEPROOTS Community Circles where they can learn, share experiences, and build supportive peer networks.
National Recognition
The DEEPROOTS Community Kiosk model has gained recognition as a promising community-based innovation in HIV prevention.
The Uganda AIDS Commission recommended the community kiosk model as part of discussions on strengthening HIV prevention approaches for engaging men.
This recognition highlights the potential of community-driven innovations to strengthen national HIV prevention strategies.
Why Visit a Community Kiosk
Our kiosks are open spaces where community members can access information, support, and resources in a welcoming environment.
When you visit a DEEPROOTS kiosk you can:
Access Reliable Information
Learn about HIV prevention, sexual health, and gender-based violence from trained peer advisors.
Receive Personalized Support
Talk confidentially with trained advisors who can guide you and connect you to services.
Protect Your Privacy
Discuss sensitive issues knowing that your confidentiality will be respected.
Gain Knowledge and Confidence
Access resources that help you make informed decisions about your health and well-being.
Connect With Your Community
Meet others who care about creating healthier and safer communities.
A Growing Network of Community Access Points
DEEPROOTS Community Vital Information Kiosks continue to expand across communities, forming an important pillar of the DEEPROOTS Community Health System.
Working together with Peer Community Advisors, mobile outreach initiatives, and digital platforms, the kiosks help create a network of trusted entry points where communities can access prevention information and support.
Through this network, Youthplus is building stronger community systems that support HIV prevention and healthier futures for young people.
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