In a bold move to empower African storytellers and challenge harmful narratives, British actor Idris Elba has announced plans to relocate to the continent within the next decade. Elba, who traces his roots to Ghana and Sierra Leone, unveiled his vision at the Africa Cinema Summit in Accra.
The Golden Globe-winning actor seeks to bolster Africa’s burgeoning film industry through strategic investments and collaborations. Elba’s plans include establishing state-of-the-art film studios in Zanzibar, Tanzania, and Accra, Ghana, to promote local filmmaking and provide opportunities for emerging talent.
Elba’s upcoming projects include a TV series adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s classic novel, “Things Fall Apart,” where he will play the lead role of Okonkwo. Despite initial concerns from Nigerians, Elba reassured his commitment to authentic storytelling and elevating African voices.
To fully immerse himself in the continent’s diverse stories, Elba will split his time between Accra, Freetown, and Zanzibar. “I’ll go where the stories are being told – that’s crucial,” he emphasized.
Elba also addressed the need to correct pervasive narratives about Africa. “Films often portray Africa as a trauma-ridden, war-torn continent, but that’s not the reality,” he said. “It’s vital we own our stories, traditions, cultures, languages, and differences. The world needs to see Africa’s true face.”
