The Nelson Mandela Foundation wants to instil a passion of reading amongst children during the lead-up to International Nelson Mandela day this year.

The foundation plans to set up a container library in each province to encourage youngsters to read.

Foundation CEO, Achmat Dangor, said at the launch yesterday.

“Mandela has always encouraged reading since his early days and has a passion to see youngsters being grown into leadership through reading”

Each container will cost R50 000, with a total cost of R450 000 for all the containers. The containers will include books from all genres particularly African literature.

These books were selected to reinforce the historical background South Africa holds and celebrate the rich heritage it possesses.

The container libraries will be set up at primary schools selected by the Soul Buddies Clubs, who will be running the libraries.

The aim of the project is to reach as many young South Africans as possible and address illiteracy in the country.

Sello Hatang, NMF Information Communications Manager, announced that a new authorised book of quotes by Nelson Mandela will be launched in time for the Nelson Mandela International Day 2011.

As in previous years, the foundation also called on all South Africans to donate 67 minutes of their time, doing a good deed, during Nelson Mandela day.