By : Lloyd Mahachi
British actor Idris Elba has revealed plans to relocate to Africa within the next decade to support the continent’s burgeoning film industry. The 52-year-old star, whose mother is from Ghana and father from Sierra Leone, aims to leverage his influence to empower African storytellers.
Elba is behind projects to build film studios in Zanzibar and Accra, Ghana, and envisions a future where Africans tell their own stories, free from stereotypes and trauma. “I would certainly consider settling down here; not even consider, it’s going to happen,” he said in an interview. This move demonstrates his commitment to promoting African cinema and providing opportunities for emerging talent.
As an actor who has played iconic roles, including Nelson Mandela in the 2013 biopic Long Walk to Freedom, Elba understands the significance of authentic representation. He emphasized the importance of Africans being central to the entire film-making process, from production to distribution. Elba dreams of producing a film in his Accra studio, showcasing the continent’s diversity and rich cultural heritage.
“Africa’s film industry is a soft power… If you watch any film about Africa, all you see is trauma, slavery, colonization, and war. But that’s not true,” Elba stated. “We must own our stories, traditions, culture, languages, and differences.” By investing in African storytelling, Elba hopes to challenge prevailing narratives and promote a more nuanced understanding of the continent.
Elba’s decision to relocate is also driven by a desire to address the lack of facilities and infrastructure hindering Africa’s film industry. A 2022 UNESCO report highlighted issues such as piracy, limited training opportunities, and inadequate film institutions. With government support and investment, Elba believes a virtuous circle can be established, fostering growth and innovation in the industry.
Ultimately, Elba’s vision is one of empowerment and self-representation. “We have to invest in our storytelling because when you see me, you see a little version of yourself, and that encourages us.” His commitment to African cinema will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of filmmakers and help shape the continent’s narrative.
Editor : Josephine Mahachi