Michel Kuka Mboladinga, widely known as Lumumba, a prominent supporter of the DR Congo national football team, will miss the team’s decisive match against Jamaica national football team after failing to secure a visa to enter Mexico, according to a statement he released.
In a communiqué published Sunday, Lumumba said he had initially traveled to Kenya in an effort to obtain the necessary travel documents but was unsuccessful despite support from officials. “It is with deep regret that I announce that I will ultimately not be in Mexico,” he said.
He added that efforts were made with the involvement of the Congolese sports ministry, noting: “Despite all the efforts made, particularly by the Minister of Sports, His Excellency Didier Budimbu, we were unable to obtain the visas.”
Lumumba later attempted an alternative route through Ethiopia, where he sought an expedited visa process. “I left Kinshasa at around 5 p.m. and spent the night in Addis Ababa, where procedures were initiated,” he said. However, he noted that even emergency visa procedures require at least one day of processing under specific conditions, making it impossible for him to arrive in time.
“Given that this was an important mission — to accompany our Leopards in their quest for the World Cup — and considering the travel time to Mexico, it seemed impossible to arrive on time and properly fulfill my mission,” he added.
The Democratic Republic of Congo, commonly referred to as Democratic Republic of the Congo, is preparing for a crucial international fixture against Jamaica as part of its broader campaign. Visa challenges for African travelers to certain destinations remain a recurring issue, often involving complex requirements and tight processing timelines.
Lumumba said he had returned to Kinshasa and would continue to support the team remotely. “I have therefore decided to return to Kinshasa to continue supporting the Leopards, but in a different way this time. Whether near or far, we remain united behind our champions,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude to an unnamed individual who assisted him throughout the process. “I would also like to express my deep gratitude to this person who accompanied me until the very end, despite their wish to remain anonymous for personal reasons. Thank you very much,” he said.
