Actor Idris Elba shares his plans to relocate to Africa, expressing a deep connection with the continent and a desire to contribute to its growth and development. Learn more about his motivations for the move.
British actor Idris Elba has announced his intention to move to Africa within the next ten years.
A BBC report on Wednesday stated that the goal is to significantly support the film industry across the continent.
The actor was born in London to a mother from Ghana and a father from Sierra Leone.
While attending a film industry meeting in Accra, Idris mentioned that he is actively participating in projects to construct film studios in both Zanzibar, Tanzania and Accra, Ghana. This effort aligns with his vision to enhance local filmmaking.
He emphasized the significance of Africans narrating their own stories on an international platform.
“I will definitely settle down here; in fact, it’s not just a possibility—it’s going to happen,” he said.
He mentioned, “I believe I will relocate in the next five to ten years, God willing. My goal is to strengthen the film industry—this is a decade-long endeavor—and it’s not something I can achieve from abroad. It’s essential for me to be present within the country and on the continent.”
It was recently revealed that the English actor will take on the role of Okonkwo, the main character in Chinua Achebe’s classic novel *Things Fall Apart*, for an upcoming TV series adaptation.
Elba, renowned for his performances in Beasts of No Nation, Pacific Rim, and Thor, stated that he wouldn’t commit to residing in one particular location.
“I’m planning to live in Accra, Freetown—the capital of Sierra Leone—and Zanzibar. My aim is to be where stories are being told; that’s incredibly important,” he added.
He expressed his dedication to using his influence to enhance the film industry in the region.
I’m here to support the film industry, which is a ten-year endeavor.
“I won’t be able to do that from abroad. I need to be present in the country, on the continent,” he said.
He believes the film industry acts as a form of “soft power” capable of transforming global perceptions of the continent.
If you watch any film or content related to Africa, it often focuses on themes of trauma, slavery, colonization, and conflict. However, when you visit Africa yourself, you’ll discover that this portrayal is not accurate.
“It’s crucial for us to embrace and take ownership of the stories from our traditions, cultures, languages, and the distinctions among them,” he emphasized. “The world isn’t aware of these differences.”
He envisions filming movies in his Accra studio someday, highlighting the potential of stories produced locally.
“We must invest in our storytelling, as seeing me is like seeing a smaller version of yourself, which inspires us,” he said.
