For over a month now, MV Logos Hope, operated by the German non-profit charitable organization Good Books for All (GBA), has had its gangways open to the public at the Mbaraki Wharf near Likoni Ferry in Mombasa.

The world’s largest floating bookfair docked in Mombasa on August 22 2023. The mooring of this 132-meter-long iconic 9-deck ship (18 years after its sister ship MV Doulos visited Kenya in 2005) has been quite the bibliophile’s dream; serving enthusiasts and school children with an extensive collection of publications encompassing genres such as science, business, cookery, arts, medicine, sports, languages, faith, academic texts, atlases, dictionaries, children’s titles and so much more.

The fair which hosted an astounding 26,000+ visitors on the first week has over the course of the month concurrently run a number of activities on board; including a leadership summit, career fair and cultural fair showcasing different cultures from all over the world and cultural performances by the international crew.

Floating for Hope:

There is more to Logos Hope beside just the titles on board. The vessel is also on a mission to serve people in the port communities. In partnership with local communities, Logos Hope’s crew and staff spreads hope and love through providing humanitarian aid, medical care, education, and disaster relief. Whilst locals visit the book fair, the ship’s teams embark on assignment to hospitals, schools, orphanages or prisons, supply aid and provide community care.

With around 60 different nationalities represented on board, the Logos Hope community is regarded as a genuine expression of international goodwill and understanding. The crew and staff are all non-salaried volunteers, including many serving in their professional capacity, such as seafarers, engineers, electricians, nurses, teachers and cooks. Sponsorship from friends, family members and civic organizations enables crew members to serve on board.

It’s clear that the Logos Hope is more than a ship; it’s a symbol of unity, growth, and the transformative power of education and empathy.

Logos Hope will be anchored in Mbaraki Wharf until October 3 2023, before setting sail to Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, where it will stay until October 23 2023. If you are yet to tour the expansive vessel, there is still a few days left to experience the bookfair and explore other amenities like the international café, visitors deck, welcome area among others at an entrance cost of fifty shillings only (KES50). Doors are open Tuesday – Sunday from 13:00 – 19:00.

More information is available at www.gbaships.org