Idris Elba Plans to Relocate to Africa Within a Decade To Boost Film Industry

In recent interview with BBC, the British actor and filmmaker Idris Elba announced his plans to relocate to Africa within the next decade, with the goal to uplift and support the continent’s burgeoning film industry. Having roots deeply embedded in Africa—his mother hailing from Ghana and his father from Sierra Leone—His commitment to telling authentic African stories is both personal and profound.

“I’m going to live in Accra, I’m going to live in Freetown, Sierra Leone, I’m going to live in Zanzibar. I’m going to try to live where they are telling stories — that is really important.”
The actor said.

Emphasizing the importance of Africans telling their own stories—Idris Elba highlighted that African stories must be told to reflect the rich tradition, culture, and languages that often go unnoticed by the world. Sometimes, when you watch African films, it often focuses on themes of slavery, war, and trauma. “We have so many stories to tell that celebrate our heritage, our resilience, and our diversity,” Elba stated. “It’s time for the world to see Africa through our eyes, for African’s to tell its own stories.

Looking at the economic potential of the film industry, as one of the most successful exports for many African countries, film has the power to drive economic growth, create jobs, and foster cultural exchange. However, he highlighted the challenge: while there is an abundance of talent across the continent, the lack of adequate facilities and infrastructure hampers the industry’s growth.
But, with the right momentum and the involvement of governments willing to support the arts, we can establish a virtuous circle.

Elba’s vision includes ambitious projects to establish film studios in Zanzibar, Tanzania, and the vibrant city of Accra, Ghana.