British actor Idris Elba has revealed ambitious plans to relocate to Africa within the next decade, a move aimed at supporting and revitalizing the continent’s burgeoning film industry. Known for his roles in hit series like *The Wire* and his portrayal of Nelson Mandela in *Long Walk to Freedom*, Elba is determined to leverage his star power to help Africans tell their own stories authentically.
During a recent interview with the BBC, Idris Elba, 52, expressed his deep attachment to Africa, highlighting his mother’s Ghanaian roots and his father’s Sierra Leonean heritage. This personal connection fuels his desire to contribute to the cinematic landscape of the continent. He is currently involved in exciting projects, including plans to establish a film studio on the Tanzanian island of Zanzibar and another in the Ghanaian capital, Accra.
“I would certainly consider settling down here; not even consider, it’s going to happen,” Idris Elba stated during an industry meeting in Accra. “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.”
In the spirit of Pan-Africanism, Idris Elba is open to living in various locations, including Accra, Freetown, and Zanzibar. He aims to immerse himself in the regions where stories are being told, believing that proximity to these narratives is crucial for effective storytelling.
Elba’s vision for African cinema extends beyond simply creating films. He believes that Africans must play central roles in all aspects of the filmmaking process, from acting and directing to financing and marketing. He envisions a future where international audiences gain a nuanced understanding of Africa, much like how they recognize the distinct characteristics of cities like New York and Los Angeles.
“This sector is a soft power, not just across Ghana but across Africa,” he explained. Elba criticized the narrow portrayal of Africa in global media, which often focuses on trauma, colonial history, and conflict. He emphasized the importance of showcasing the continent’s rich traditions, diverse cultures, and languages. “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.”
With Nigeria’s Nollywood producing hundreds of films annually, the country has established itself as a powerhouse in African cinema. However, Elba acknowledges that many regions, particularly in Francophone Africa, also have a rich history of creating high-quality films. Despite this potential, he has noted that the industry often struggles with inadequate facilities and resources.
A 2022 UNESCO report corroborates Elba’s concerns, highlighting that while there has been significant growth in production, challenges such as piracy, limited training opportunities, and a lack of formal film institutions hinder progress. Elba advocates for increased government involvement and investment to create an enabling environment for filmmakers.
“We have to invest in our storytelling because when you see me, you see a little version of yourself, and that encourages us,” he stated. His commitment to fostering a thriving film industry in Africa is not only about economic growth but also about empowering future generations to express their identities and experiences through film.
As Idris Elba embarks on this journey, his plans could significantly impact Africa’s film landscape. By relocating to the continent and investing in its creative potential, he hopes to inspire a new wave of filmmakers and artists to take ownership of their narratives. With the right support and infrastructure, Africa’s film industry can flourish, bringing diverse stories to the forefront and reshaping global perceptions of the continent.
In conclusion, Idris Elba’s vision for the African film industry represents a pivotal moment in the continent’s cultural evolution. By fostering talent and championing authentic storytelling, he aims to create a legacy that empowers Africans to share their stories on their own terms. As he prepares for this significant move, the world will be watching closely, eager to see how his efforts will transform the cinematic landscape of Africa.
In other news – Teenager sentenced for forging ZIMSEC Examination Results
In a significant legal development, an 18-year-old girl from Murisa Park in Chitungwiza, Shamiso Pretty Bvukure, has been convicted for forging her Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) results. This case has raised concerns about examination integrity and the lengths to which some individuals will go to manipulate their academic credentials.
Bvukure appeared before the Harare Magistrates’ Court, facing serious charges under the Zimbabwe Examination Act. The incident came to light during a routine verification process on October 11, 2024, when the Police General Headquarters’ recruiting section sought to confirm the ZIMSEC results of multiple applicants. Read More
