By Bahle Gama
Approximately 100 bikers participated in the 2025 Africa Ubuntu Bikers Run, an event held simultaneously across various countries, including Eswatini, on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
The event was graced by bikers from Mozambique and South Africa, whilst also ongoing in other countries like Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Namibia and Botswana amongst others.
They rode from Matsapha Inn to Nhlangano and back for an estimated 213 km.
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Spokesperson Kirran ‘Mahlalekhikhini’ Thurgood said the fact that over 10 countries are now simultaneously celebrating this historical event is indicative of its growth and popularity.
He said the Ubuntu Run continues to adhere to its original principles and remains grounded in the three pillars of brotherhood: loyalty, honour, and respect.
According to Thurgood, brotherhood is a phrase commonly used by bikers to describe the deep relationships they share, which transcend race, gender, culture, and association.
“We continue to strongly condemn any form of discrimination and stand for equal rights for all human beings.
Furthermore, we advocate for the demonstration of peace, love, and humanity toward one another. This, in a nutshell, is the foundation of the Ubuntu Run,” he said.
Thurgood further highlighted the event’s all-inclusive approach, which accommodates various types of clubs, councils, federations, and other organized biking affiliations.
“The Ubuntu Run couldn’t have achieved any success without the collaboration, material support, and endorsement of its stakeholders, government departments, and the motorbiking industry.
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The biking fraternity has grown immensely in both size and stature and continues to evolve in terms of culture and practice.”
Thurgood also emphasized that, while progress has been made, there are still challenges ahead, adding that having won some battles doesn’t mean the war has been won.
“We have a long way to go and many obstacles to overcome. The only way to achieve this is by keeping everything simple.
Let us continue with our good and admirable behaviour and, by all means, avoid being legislated for our conduct.”
He called for a collective approach to achieve the event’s continental goals, objectives, and concerns.
He said it is everyone’s duty and obligation to spread the gospel about this wonderful event and its purpose.
“We haven’t conquered until every single country on our continent is affiliated with this movement.”
Thurgood concluded by urging respective governments and business sectors to support the biking communities.
“Our respective governments and other sectors of business should be encouraged to join the biking communities in their struggles. Together, we can achieve anything we set our minds to. Unity is power.”
