Bikers unite for ‘ubuntu’ run at Karibib

KARIBIB in the Erongo region awoke on Sunday as around 100 bikers from various motorcycle clubs rode into town for the annual national Ubuntu Breakfast Run (UBR).
The local children could not hide their excitement, standing for hours to admire the ‘iron horses’ riding in and out of the venue as bikers gathered for their first event of the 2026 season.
The run takes place annually on the last Sunday of January, with riders uniting in the spirit of ubuntu to embrace the open road.
Felix Tjozongoro, an avid biker and road safety campaigner, attended with his entire family. He said despite the mercury hitting 38°C, riders found comfort in the wind while wearing heavy protective gear.
He said modern riding has evolved, with some bikers using intercommunication devices in their helmets to talk to their passengers, while others use integrated music systems to shorten the long Namibian distances.
However, safety remains a primary concern. Tjozongoro said some motorists display aggressive behaviour, jeopardising the lives of bikers.
“We are family people and we always want to get home. We need to share the road, and we appeal to other road users to please be on the lookout for bikes,” he said.
He said unlike motor vehicles that offer a cocoon of protection, bikers face a much higher risk of serious injury or death during an accident.
Even with helmets and gear, they remain vulnerable. Tjozongoro advised motorists to maintain a safe distance when overtaking motorcycles.
For him, the spirit of ubuntu is the core of the culture.
Once a rider is fully dressed in their gear, distinctions of colour and race disappear, he said.
“We are one big family.”
Meanwhile, mining and chemistry student Celine Izaaks (21), one of the few women riders at the event, on Sunday said she enjoyed the journey, though she admitted it was intense.
Riding a Kawasaki ZX-6R, Izaaks said a healthy respect for the machine is vital.
“It is good to be scared; you should always be scared of your bike,” she said.
“Despite official training, one must always respect the machine and the road.”
Izaaks said finding a personal riding style is key to building confidence and “comfortability” on two wheels.
While the ubuntu run was the season opener, various clubs across the country have a full calendar lined up for 2026.
Similar events were held simultaneously across the continent and further afield, including South Africa, Angola, Botswana, Uganda, Tanzania, Portugal and the United States.

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