Renowned African-British actor Idris Elba has announced his intention to move to Africa within the next decade, aiming to enhance the continent’s film industry by promoting authentic African stories told by Africans.
In a BBC interview on Wednesday, Elba explained that his decision reflects his desire to play an active role in building and supporting Africa’s film sector. Born in London to a Ghanaian mother and a Sierra Leonean father, Elba shared these insights during a film industry event in Accra. He revealed his involvement in projects to develop film studios in Zanzibar, Tanzania, and Accra, Ghana, as part of his long-term vision for local filmmaking.
“I’m not just considering settling here; it’s definitely happening. I plan to relocate within five to ten years, God willing,” Elba said. “Bolstering the film industry is a decade-long commitment, and I can’t do it from overseas—I need to be on the continent, working in-country.”
Reports indicate that Elba is set to portray Okonkwo, the central character in the TV adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s iconic novel Things Fall Apart, sparking discussions across social media platforms.
Elba, known for his performances in Beasts of No Nation, Pacific Rim, and Thor, said he is not tied to living in a single location. “I’ll spend time in Accra, Freetown, and Zanzibar. I want to be wherever stories are being told—that’s what truly matters,” he noted.
Reaffirming his commitment to leveraging his influence for the region’s benefit, Elba emphasized the need for African storytellers to control their narratives. “Most films about Africa focus on trauma—slavery, colonization, war. But when you experience Africa firsthand, you realize that’s not the full picture,” he said.
He stressed the importance of preserving and sharing Africa’s cultural heritage. “It’s essential for us to own our stories—our traditions, cultures, languages, and the diversity between them—because the world doesn’t fully understand these aspects.”
Elba also highlighted the power of representation in storytelling. “When people see me, they see a reflection of themselves, and that inspires them. That’s why we must invest in telling our stories—so we can encourage and empower one another,” he concluded.
