John Joseph Akar of Sierra Leone was a noted actor, broadcaster, diplomat, journalist, and author. Born at Rotifunk on 20 May 1927, he was educated at the Evangelical United Brethren Day School and the Albert Academy in Freetown, before furthering his studies in the United States at Oberlin College and the University of California at Berkeley. He then went on to the London University School of Economics (LSE) in England. Akar became director of broadcasting in Sierra Leone during 1960-66 and composed Sierra Leone’s national anthem in 1961. He organized (and directed) the National Dance Troupe in Sierra Leone which soon established a worldwide reputation. Akar was appointed Sierra Leone’s ambassador to the United States in 1969 but resigned when his country declared itself a republic in 1971. He spent his last years in Jamaica, West Indies, writing for the Daily Gleaner. He died there on 23 June 1975. His two best known plays were Valley Without Echo and Cry Tamba.
AKAR, John Joseph
