DR Congo superfan Michel Nkunka Mboladinga, globally known as “Lumumba Vea” became a viral sensation during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
The 53 year old earned plaudits for his “human statue” tribute to independence hero Patrice Lumumba.
He created such an impact, he was offered the chance to stay on in Morocco as a tournament ambassador. He turned it down to return home with DR Congo, who were knocked out at the round of 16 stage.
Following his return to Kinshasa, the Congolese government has transformed his life with a series of high-profile rewards.
Mboladinga was awarded a brand-new Jetour luxury jeep on Wednesday. It was handed over by the ministry of sports and recreation Didier Budimbu.
The car will feature a custom license plate reading CADEAU DU PRESIDENT, signifying it as a personal gift from the president Felix Tshisekedi.
Mboladinga was recognised as a cultural ambassador whose motionless 90-minute performances boosted Congolese national pride on a global stage.
Lumumba Vea given more honors:
According to media outlets, Mboladinga was also given a new residence to secure his future. He was also assigned a physical office to co-ordinate his new role as symbolic ambassador for sports and culture.
According to reports, the Jeep was only the beginning. The government’s "merit package" for the superfan reportedly includes:
Further reports also claim Mboladinga turned down a 2000 pound-per-match offer to continue his statue act for other nations after DR Congo were eliminated, telling reporters his loyalty could not be bought.
Mboladinga was also honored by Algeria following a brief controversy after Mohamed Amoura appeared to mock him during their dramatic 1-0 win over DR Congo in the round of 16.
