British actor Idris Elba recently shared his plans to move to Africa in the next decade to support the continent’s budding movie industry.
The 52-year-old star of The Wire is working on establishing film studios in Zanzibar, Tanzania, and Accra, Ghana.
Elba, who has roots in Ghana and Sierra Leone, expressed his strong connection to Africa and his belief in the importance of Africans telling their own stories.
He emphasized the need for Africans to be involved in all aspects of filmmaking, from the creative process to financing and distribution.
The actor is determined to make a significant impact on Africa’s film industry by being physically present on the continent. He envisions living in various African cities, including Accra, Freetown, and Zanzibar, to immerse himself in the vibrant storytelling culture.
Elba’s ultimate goal is to produce a film in his Accra studio and contribute to changing the narrative of Africa in global cinema.
He highlighted the misrepresentation of Africa in mainstream media and stressed the importance of showcasing the continent’s rich cultural heritage and diversity.
Despite acknowledging the talented filmmakers in Africa, Elba pointed out the lack of adequate facilities and support systems for the industry.
He believes that with the right investments and government support, Africa’s film sector can thrive and create a positive impact on society.
The actor’s decision to relocate to Africa reflects his commitment to empowering African storytellers and promoting authentic representation of the continent on the global stage.
