Ibrahim S, Bangura
Sierra Leone – January 16, 2026: The Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis, has officially graced the symbolic commencement of restoration works at Old Fourah Bay College (FBC) in Cling Town, marking a milestone in Sierra Leone’s heritage preservation and cultural renaissance.
A Landmark Restoration
The project aims to conserve the historic fabric of Old Fourah Bay College while reimagining it as a multipurpose cultural facility that will include a performance theatre, museum, education centre, and community space. Beyond physical restoration, the initiative integrates skills training, youth engagement, and economic development, positioning culture as a driver of national growth.
Chairman of the event, Dr. Julius Spencer, head of the Ballanta Academy of Music and Arts, emphasized the building’s iconic status in Sierra Leone’s educational history. He recalled that the structure suffered fire damage during a period of displacement and refugee occupation, but noted that restoration has already begun with the renewal of cast-iron elements such as railings.
Minister Tunis described the project as a landmark national initiative that reaffirms Sierra Leone’s respect for history, confidence in culture, and national identity. She commended West Africa Heritage Consultants (SL) Ltd and its Managing Director, Ms. Isatu Smith, for their perseverance, while expressing appreciation to the Commonwealth Heritage Forum, the United States Embassy, and other partners for their support.
She highlighted Old Fourah Bay College’s unique status as the first Western-style higher learning institution in Sub-Saharan Africa, founded in 1827 by the Church Missionary Society. Initially established to train freed slaves and missionaries after the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade, the college grew from six students into a pioneering university that shaped leadership across West Africa.
“The deterioration of Old FBC nearly erased a vital part of our collective memory,” the Minister noted. “This restoration safeguards its legacy as a living testament to academic excellence and intellectual leadership.” She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to heritage preservation, particularly as 2026 has been declared Sierra Leone’s Year of Culture and Creativity.
Professor Joe A.D. Alie, historian, recalled the institution’s foundational role in shaping regional leadership.
Ms. Isatu Smith, Project Manager and member of the Commonwealth Heritage Forum, announced that Ballanta Academy will provide creative skills training at the site.
Architect Steven Battle of the World Monuments Fund explained that the current phase focuses on installing a new roof, stabilizing the structure, and enabling productive use of the ground floor, with future phases planned to restore additional floors.
A U.S. Embassy representative described Old FBC as a cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s educational and leadership legacy, citing support through the Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation.
British High Commissioner Josephine Gauld LVO underscored the regional importance of the restoration, noting its international recognition.
Freetown Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr linked the project to the Transform Freetown Agenda, highlighting cultural heritage as a pillar of infrastructure, history, pride, and inspiration.
Preserving a National Treasure
Old Fourah Bay College, once dubbed the “Athens of Africa,” educated generations of leaders, scholars, and clergy across West Africa. Its restoration is not only a cultural milestone but also a reaffirmation of Sierra Leone’s place in global history.