Why Idris Elba Plans to relocate to Africa

Renowned British actor Idris Elba has revealed plans to relocate to Africa within the next decade, driven by his passion to support the continent’s thriving film industry.

According to BBC report, Mr. Elba disclosed his plan to bolster Africa’s burgeoning film sector.

The 52-year-old actor, best known for his iconic role in “The Wire,” is spearheading ambitious projects to establish film studios in strategic locations in Africa.

This includes building a state-of-the-art studio on the picturesque Tanzanian islands of Zanzibar and another in Ghana’s capital, Accra.

Elba disclosed that his vision goes beyond mere investment.

Born in London with roots firmly planted in Africa, his mother hails from Ghana and his father from Sierra Leone.

His connection to the continent runs deep.

He aims to empower Africans to tell their own stories, fostering authentic representation and narrative control, as reported.

By leveraging his global influence, he seeks to bolster the continent’s burgeoning film sector, ensuring that African voices resonate worldwide.

This move underscores his commitment to bridging cultural divides and promoting Africa’s rich creative heritage.

As he prepares to make Africa his home, his pioneering spirit promises to leave an indelible mark on the continent’s cinematic landscape.

He made this statement during an interview on the margins of a key industry conference held in Accra.

“I would certainly consider settling down here; not even consider, it’s going to happen”, he said.

“I think I’ll move in the next five, 10 years, God willing.

“I’m here to bolster the film industry – that is a 10-year process.

“I won’t be able to do that from overseas.

“I need to be in country, on the continent”, he disclosed.

Reflecting his commitment to Pan-Africanism, he remains open to residing in various places across the continent.

“I’m going to live in Accra, I’m going to live in Freetown, I’m going to live in Zanzibar.

“I’m going to try and go where they’re telling stories – that’s really important”, he added.

Reports indicate that one of Idris Elba’s aspirations is to produce a film at his Accra-based studio in the future.

“It’s really important that we own those stories…” – Idris Elba

The renowned actor who portrayed Nelson Mandela in the 2013 biopic “Long Walk to Freedom”, emphasizes the importance of African ownership in the film industry.

He advocates for Africans to take the reins in every aspect of filmmaking, from starring roles to behind-the-scenes production, financing, distribution, marketing, and exhibition.

The English actor envisions a future where global audiences develop a deeper understanding of Africa’s diversity.

He said it will be similar to how they distinguish between iconic American cities like New York and Los Angeles.

He hopes to dispel stereotypes and foster a more nuanced appreciation for the continent’s rich cultures and complexities.

Elba hopes to achieve this through increased African representation in film.

This will allow viewers to appreciate the unique characteristics of various African cities and regions, as claimed.

“This sector is a soft power, not just across Ghana but across Africa.

“If you watch any film or anything that has got to do with Africa, all you’re going to see is trauma, how we were slaves, how we were colonised, how it’s just war and when you come to Africa, you will realise that it’s not true.

“So, it’s really important that we own those stories of our tradition, of our culture, of our languages, of the differences between one language and another.

“The world doesn’t know that”, he said.

With Nigeria’s Nollywood churning out hundreds of films annually, it solidifies its position as one of the country’s most lucrative exports.

This points it out as a cinematic powerhouse.

Moreover, Francophone Africa boasts a rich tradition of producing high-caliber films that resonate globally.

The actor has long acknowledged the immense talent residing within Africa’s film industry.

However, he notes that the continent’s cinematic potential is hindered by inadequate facilities.

He further underscored the need for infrastructure development to elevate African storytelling to new heights.

“We have to invest in our story-telling…” – Idris Elba

The United Nation’s cultural agency highlights that Africa’s film industry, despite experiencing remarkable growth, faces debilitating challenges.

Key obstacles include rampant piracy, inadequate training programs, and a scarcity of formal film institutions, stifling the continent’s cinematic potential.

Elba remains optimistic, contending that with sustained momentum and strategic government support, a self-reinforcing cycle of success can emerge.

By fostering an enabling environment, governments can catalyze growth, attracting investment, and nurturing talent, ultimately propelling Africa’s film industry to global prominence.

“We have to invest in our story-telling because when you see me, you see a little version of yourself and that encourages us”, he stated.

Chinua Achebe’s Classic Things Fall Apart: Idris Elba to portray Okonkwo in the new TV series adaptation

In a highly anticipated TV series, Idris Elba will take on the iconic role of Okonkwo from Chinua Achebe’s beloved novel “Things Fall Apart”.

He will be reimagining the character for a new audience.

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