In one of the more bizarre stories surrounding the World Cup taking place in South Africa this year, I've just stumbled upon an announcement that Britain announced on Tuesday that they would providing $1.5 million in aid so South Africa can buy condoms.

The money is provided to help South Africa buy one billion condoms to help the fight against the spread of HIV through a country already heavily infected with the virus.

An estimated 5.7 million of South Africa's 48 million people have HIV, including 280,000 children, according to the UN AIDS agency.

The money comes just after South African President Jacob Zuma left the UK on Friday after a three-day state visit.

International Development Minister Gareth Thomas
As a consequence we face the very real prospect that progress on tackling HIV will go into reverse. That is why [Britain] is supporting South Africa's leadership and drive to turn the tide on their epidemic.

There was a fear that the country would run out of supplied of condoms, but now with this money, they should be able to place a fairly substantial order, but to be safe, I'd recommend packing your own - they don't take much space.

General Medical Officer for 2010 LOC Victor Ramathesele
There's going to be a large number of people who will be descending onto the country. There's going to be a spirit of festivity and... there could be a more than usual demand for measures such as condoms.

Have fun in South Africa, enjoy the football and everything the country has to offer, but also, be careful. There are certain things you can not undo.