UMhlathuze welcomes the floating library committee
PLANS are well under way for the arrival of the world's largest floating library, the MV Logos Hope, set to arrive in Richards Bay around 10 January 2024.
The floating library remains in each port for about two weeks and opens the gangways to thousands of visitors each day.
It has more than 5 000 book titles to choose from, with learning opportunities offered to the youth.
City of uMhlathuze Deputy Mayor Christo Botha and the local Ports Committee last week welcomed the vessel's line-up team - Eiki Endo, Sarah Müller and Cecilia Tyamzashe.
Led by Endo from Japan, the team will ensure the ship's hassle-free arrival, as well as the departure of 100 crew and arrival of new crew members from across the globe.
The crew and staff are all volunteers, including many serving in their professional capacity, such as seafarers, engineers, electricians, nurses, teachers and cooks.
Botha said the Ports Committee, led by pastors and community leaders, has been instrumental in bringing the ship to the city.
"The aim is to have 20 000 people visit the ship during its stay in the Port of Richards Bay. We encourage visitation and participation in a wide variety of programmes focusing on the youth," he said.
"The Ports Committee and lineup team will engage with churches and schools to ensure access to the ship's resources in dealing with bullying and social ills.
"This is a fantastic opportunity for the city, and we thank our local church leaders who are leading this initiative."
The local committee chairperson, Pastor Timothy Harry encourages all stakeholders to participate in the programmes in terms of training, development and outreach.
For more information, contact Pastor Timothy Harry on
082 7838131.