British actor Idris Elba has announced his intention to move to Africa within the next decade, driven by a commitment to support the continent’s burgeoning film industry. Famous for his roles in The Wire and Luther, the 52-year-old actor is spearheading efforts to establish film studios in Zanzibar and Accra, Ghana. With his heritage rooted in Africa—his mother being Ghanaian and his father Sierra Leonean—Elba is passionate about using his influence and resources to uplift the African film sector.
He stressed the need for Africans to be at the forefront of the filmmaking process, from production to distribution. In an interview with the BBC, Elba proudly identified with the Ga tribe of Ghana, saying, “I am a Ga boy, so I love the sun, the heat, and my food.” His strong cultural connections are driving his mission to bring authentic African stories to the global stage.
Having portrayed Nelson Mandela in Long Walk to Freedom (2013), Elba sees a future where African narratives are celebrated worldwide, moving beyond the shadows of slavery and colonization. He believes that the continent’s stories, traditions, and cultures deserve more visibility.
While Nigeria’s Nollywood industry is flourishing, Elba pointed out that Africa’s broader film sector still faces significant infrastructure challenges. A 2022 Unesco report highlighted issues such as gaps in training, resources, and film institutions, all of which Elba aims to address through his initiatives.
He underscored the importance of storytelling, saying, “We need to invest in our stories because when you see someone like me, you see a reflection of yourself, and that inspires us.” Through his efforts, Elba hopes to elevate African cinema and bring its rich and diverse narratives to a global audience.