London-born actor Idris Elba has revealed his plans to move to Africa within the next decade, as part of a larger vision to elevate the continent’s film industry. Elba, whose roots trace back to Sierra Leone and Ghana, shared this ambition during a film industry gathering in Accra, Ghana, BBC reports.
Known for his standout performances in Beasts of No Nation, Thor, and Pacific Rim, Elba aims to create a sustainable impact on African filmmaking by establishing local film studios in Accra and Zanzibar, Tanzania.
Elba emphasized his belief in the power of African stories, insisting that the narratives told by the continent need to be amplified on the global stage. “I would certainly consider settling down here; not even consider, it’s going to happen,” he said. The actor highlighted that his move to Africa is essential for his plans, stating, “I won’t be able to do that from overseas. I need to be in-country, on the continent.”
In an effort to contribute to Africa’s burgeoning film industry, Elba is currently involved in two major studio projects on the continent. His vision is to provide the infrastructure needed for African filmmakers to tell their stories authentically and with global reach. He aims to demonstrate that the continent’s richness goes far beyond the historical traumas often depicted in Western media.
Elba’s relocation plans come alongside his announcement of starring as Okonkwo in an upcoming TV series adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s literary classic Things Fall Apart. This highly anticipated project is expected to draw significant global attention, further solidifying his role as a key player in shaping Africa’s cultural narrative through film.
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“I’m not just going to settle in one place,” Elba explained, discussing his plans to divide his time across various cities on the continent, including Accra, Freetown, and Zanzibar. “I’m going to try and go where they’re telling stories – that’s really important.” This approach, he believes, will allow him to engage more deeply with diverse African cultures and support local talent in sharing their unique perspectives.
Elba highlighted the untapped potential of Africa’s film industry as a form of “soft power” capable of shifting global perceptions of the continent. “When you come to Africa, you realize that it’s not just about war or colonialism. There’s so much more—our culture, our traditions, our languages—these are the stories the world needs to know,” he said.
By building film studios and investing in local talent, Elba hopes to lay the foundation for a self-sustaining industry that can inspire generations. “We have to invest in our storytelling because when you see me, you see a little version of yourself, and that encourages us,” he added.
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As the actor prepares for his transition to the continent, his influence and dedication to promoting African stories could significantly transform how the world views Africa and its people. For Elba, this 10-year process is not just about making movies—it’s about empowering Africa to own and tell its own stories.
