DR Congo's Leopards rely on diaspora support for World Cup amid Ebola travel restrictions

Marcus Epwo, a prominent figure in the Congolese community in Houston, explained that usual supporters face a 21-day quarantine in a third country and specific airport procedures, including testing. The team itself underwent a 21-day isolation in a "sanitary bubble" in Belgium before entering the US. In response, the Congolese diaspora is mobilizing, particularly in Houston, home to approximately 10,000 Congolese, and Dallas, with over 16,000.

They aim to recreate the atmosphere of a major global event, having already welcomed the players with flags, vuvuzelas, and traditional ndombolo dances at their Houston hotel. Supporters like 41-year-old Tshiunza Kalubi expressed sadness that many cannot travel but feel a greater responsibility to cheer for those back home. Some expatriates, not subject to the same restrictions, have also traveled, such as Antoinette Kayembe, who came from Paris with her daughters to support the team.

The World Health Organization reported that the Ebola epidemic, originating in eastern DRC, continues to spread, with 676 confirmed cases and 136 deaths from the Bundibugyo strain, for which no vaccine or treatment is currently authorized. Furah Kashemwa, 50, noted the significance of the team's return to the Wo