British actor Idris Elba, who has Ghanaian heritage, has shared his plans to move to Africa within the next decade to contribute to the continent’s film industry. The 52-year-old star of The Wire and Luther is leading efforts to establish film studios in Zanzibar and Accra, Ghana. Elba, born in London to a Ghanaian mother and Sierra Leonean father, has deep connections to Africa and recognizes the potential to uplift the film industry through his influence.
At a film industry gathering in Accra, Elba expressed his commitment to the continent’s storytelling, stating, “I’m definitely going to settle here; it’s not just a consideration, it’s a certainty.” He also revealed plans to live in cities like Accra, Freetown, and Zanzibar over the next five to ten years to help promote authentic African narratives.
Having portrayed Nelson Mandela in Long Walk to Freedom (2013), Elba believes that Africans should lead the filmmaking process, from production to distribution. He envisions a future where global audiences gain a more nuanced view of Africa, focusing on its rich cultures and traditions rather than just its history of slavery and colonization.
His ultimate goal is to empower Africans to own and share their stories, encouraging the world to recognize the continent’s rich and diverse narratives. Elba emphasized the importance of representation in African cinema, stating that when Africans see themselves in these stories, it fosters a sense of pride and encouragement.
