**Condom Controversy at Milan 2026 Winter Olympics: Lessons for Africa's Sports Festivals** The just-concluded Milan 2026 Winter Olympics might have been a spectacular display of athleticism and global unity, but a peculiar controversy has emerged that has left many tongues wagging. Just three days into the competition, the athletes' village ran out of condoms, sparking debates about safe sex, health priorities, and the real needs of sportspeople. What can Africa learn from this unexpected development? For years, the Winter Olympics has made a bold move to promote safe sex among its athletes by providing them with a substantial supply of condoms. The goal was to encourage sportspeople to prioritize their health and well-being, especially in the intense environment of international competitions. In Milan, the initial allocation was an impressive 300,000 condoms, representing a robust gesture towards sexual health awareness. However, in a surprising decision, the organizers suddenly reduced the supply to a mere 10,000 condoms, only to see the stock depleted within three days. The reasons behind this drastic reduction are unclear, but it raises important questions about the priorities of sports organizers. Are athletes' health and well-being truly a top concern, or are other considerations taking precedence? It's worth noting that the reduced supply of condoms didn't seem to be a result of a sudden decrease in demand; rather, it appears to have been a deliberate choice made by the organizers. For African countries, which have been actively bidding to host major sports festivals, this controversy serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges that lie ahead. Hosting international sports events requires careful planning, resource allocation, and a commitment to athlete welfare. While Africa has made significant strides in hosting successful sports events, there's still a long way to go in terms of infrastructure, logistics, and health services. The condom controversy at the Milan 2026 Winter Olympics serves as a call to action for African sports organizers to prioritize athlete health and well-being. By learning from this experience, we can ensure that our own sports festivals promote a culture of safe sex, healthy living, and athlete support. It's time to put the needs of our sportspeople at the forefront of planning and execution, setting a new standard for African sports festivals that prioritize health, dignity, and well-being.