By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Freetown, Sierra Leone – May 26, 2025 – The Freetown City Council Hall played host to a thought-provoking symposium celebrating the legacy and contributions of the late John Smythe, an unsung hero in Sierra Leone’s history. The event attracted students, dignitaries, and historical experts, all united in their mission to promote heritage education and historical preservation.
Mayor Aki-Sawyerr Calls for Historical Recognition
Opening the symposium, Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr delivered a compelling speech on the need to safeguard the country’s historical relics and narratives. Stressing the importance of seeing structures and artifacts as vital pieces of history, she remarked, “Historical values are not just things and people we should celebrate and never forget—they are the foundation on which we build our identity as a people.”
Reflecting on Smythe’s legacy, Aki-Sawyerr noted that many Sierra Leoneans remain unaware of his contributions, highlighting the need to preserve the stories of individuals who shaped the nation but have faded from collective memory. She emphasized bridging the generational gap in historical knowledge, stating, “History is not only written in books; it is lived through our actions. Let us be the generation that revives the forgotten, celebrates the overlooked, and builds a stronger Sierra Leone rooted in knowledge of who we are.”
John Smythe’s Enduring Legacy
A powerful highlight of the event was a presentation by Smythe’s son, Eddie Smythe, who provided personal insights into his father’s life as a civil servant, educator, and cultural preservationist. He described his father’s lifelong commitment to education and national identity, stating, “His legacy remains a source of inspiration, honored through symposiums and educational initiatives both locally and internationally.”
Born in Freetown, John Smythe’s contributions spanned military service, legal expertise, and cultural advocacy. He was among the select 60 Africans to serve as aircrew in the Royal Air Force (RAF) during World War II, completing 26 missions before being shot down over Germany on his 27th sortie. Held as a prisoner of war for 18 months, Smythe’s resilience stood as a testament to African servicemen’s courage.
Upon his return, he pursued legal studies in London, later serving as Sierra Leone’s Solicitor General and Attorney General. His efforts played a crucial role in shaping the country’s post-independence judiciary. Smythe’s lifelong commitment to educating future generations and advocating for Africa’s dignity remains an integral part of heritage education initiatives today.
Call for Stronger Heritage Education Efforts
Stakeholders at the symposium emphasized the need for government and private sector collaboration to enhance heritage education. Cultural activist Mamie Kallon underscored the event’s significance, stating, “Our culture and history are not just symbols of the past—they are keys to national healing, pride, and sustainable development. By reviving stories like John Smythe’s, we reclaim ownership of our narrative.”
With renewed focus on national identity and historical education, the symposium served as a powerful reminder of the impact of preserving Sierra Leone’s rich heritage. As Smythe’s legacy continues to inspire initiatives across the country, his story stands as a beacon for the next generation to embrace and uphold the country’s historical pride.