The London born actor Idris Elba, who has roots in Africa through his Ghanaian mother and Sierra Leonean father, recently shared his plans to boost the African film industry. Speaking at a film industry event in Ghana, Elba outlined his vision for the continent’s film industry growth.
Elba showed out his upcoming projects, including plans to establish film studios in Zanzibar, Tanzania, and Accra, Ghana. These initiatives are part of his broader mission to strengthen the local filmmaking landscape.
I am committed to settling down here, it is not just a consideration, it’s going to happen. I expect to move within the next five to ten years, God willing. To truly support the film industry, a 10-year effort, I need to be here on the continent, not abroad,” he stated.
The respected actor, who previously announced he would play Okonkwo, the protagonist in a TV adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s classic “Things Fall Apart”, has faced some criticism from Nigerians regarding this role. However, Idris Elba remains dedicated to using his influence to improve the African entertainment sector.
As he outlines his plans, Elba points out the importance of flexibility, saying, “I won’t be confined to one place. I plan to live in Accra, Freetown in Sierra Leone, and Zanzibar. I want to be where stories are being told—it’s crucial.”
Idris Elba also stressed the need to challenge misrepresentations of Africa in global media.
“Most films about Africa focus on trauma—slavery, colonization, war. But when you visit Africa, you realize that’s not the full story. It’s vital that we take charge of telling stories about our traditions, cultures, languages, and the diversity within the continent. The world doesn’t know that” he concluded.
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