Renowned British actor Idris Elba has announced plans to relocate to Africa within the next five to ten years, a move he envisions as a crucial step in his decade-long mission to strengthen the African film industry. With Ghanaian and Sierra Leonean heritage, Elba aims to channel his influence and resources into building a thriving film sector across the continent, with a particular focus on Accra, Ghana, and Zanzibar, Tanzania.
Currently involved in projects to establish film studios in Accra and Zanzibar, Elba’s ambition is to empower African filmmakers to control their narratives and showcase authentic African stories on a global scale. “I would certainly consider settling down here, not even consider—it’s going to happen,” he affirmed. “I’m here to bolster the film industry; that is a 10-year process, and I won’t be able to do that from overseas. I need to be in-country, on the continent.”
Reflecting his Pan-African outlook, Elba shared that he plans to alternate his residency across different locations, including Accra, Freetown, and Zanzibar, rather than settling in just one country. His commitment to Africa’s film sector acknowledges the vast, untapped potential in diverse film industries, from Nollywood’s prolific output to the Francophone world’s high-quality productions in countries like Senegal. However, Elba highlighted a pressing challenge: the lack of facilities necessary to elevate Africa’s creative output to international standards.
Elba’s approach is more than a personal goal; it’s part of a larger vision to create sustainable growth within the continent’s film sector. By working with African governments to foster supportive environments, he believes a “virtuous circle” can be created—one where investment in infrastructure leads to higher-quality productions, better opportunities for African creatives, and a stronger cultural impact worldwide.
With his extensive experience in Hollywood and commitment to showcasing authentic African stories, Elba’s involvement offers a powerful boost to Africa’s film industry. As he prepares for this transition, his vision aligns with the aspirations of many African filmmakers, who hope to see their industry recognized for its talent, diversity, and depth on the global stage.
